N. Korea vows to deepen relations with Cuba

North Korea said Wednesday that it will strengthen relations with Cuba as the two marked the anniversary of the establishment of their diplomatic ties almost six decades ago.

North Korea and Cuba have "consolidated their friendly ties in their fight for building socialism for the past 58 years," said the Rodong Sinmun, the official newspaper of the Workers' Party of Korea, calling the ties those of "invincible" and "eternal comrades."

"Our people will continue to make active efforts to strengthen and advance the time-honored and friendly relations with Cuba based on principles of revolution and camaraderie," it added.

The newspaper also heaped praise on Cuba for making progress in improving its economy, which it said have been devastated by oppression from imperialists, apparently pointing to the sanctions imposed by the United States.

North Korea and Cuba established diplomatic ties on Aug. 29, 1960. The North recently sent high-ranking officials, including its No. 2, Choe Ryong-hae, to the island country in a bid to demonstrate their long and friendly relations.