Russia has sent more than 70 animals from a Moscow zoo as a gift to the North Korean capital, Pyongyang, including an African lion and two brown bears. According to a Russian government statement, the animals were presented as "a gift from President Vladimir Putin to the Korean people."

The animals were transported by plane to the Pyongyang Central Zoo under the supervision of Russia's Minister of Natural Resources Alexander Kozlov. Veterinarians from the Moscow Zoo accompanied them to ensure the animals' safety during the trip.

Photos released by the Russian government showed a white cockatoo traveling in a basket, and Kozlov being given a tour of the zoo by local officials.

This is not the first time Russia has done something like this. In April, Russia donated various birds including eagles, storks and parrots to the same zoo in Pyongyang. The exchange of gifts reflects the strengthening ties between Russia and North Korea. These ties have become even closer since President Putin visited North Korea in June, where he signed a treaty with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un.

During the visit, Kim gifted Putin a pair of Pungsan dogs, a breed native to North Korea. In a symbolic gesture, the leaders took turns driving each other around in Russian-made Aurus limousines.

pc:dnaindia