Mr. Assad wants to visit North Korea

Syrian President Bashar Assad. Photo: AP

Rodong Sinmun, the mouthpiece of the Workers' Party of Korea, said the Syrian leader made the statement during a ceremony to receive credentials from the new North Korean ambassador on May 30.

"President Assad stated that the foundation of friendly relations between the countries was laid by former leader Hafez al-Assad, he stressed his intention to visit North Korea in the future and meet with leader Kim Jong-un," - the article said.

The Syrian president also expressed confidence that "the cause of Korean reunification will come true."

"The Syrian government continues to fully support the policies and measures of the North Korean government, and will expand and strengthen friendly relations with the DPRK," the article quoted Mr. Assad as saying.