North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has issued directives to expedite war preparations by the country’s military, munitions industry, and nuclear weapons sector.
Response To Perceived Threat From U.S.
This is in response to perceived confrontational actions by the United States, as reported by state media. During a key meeting of the ruling party, Kim also emphasized the expansion of strategic cooperation with “anti-imperialist independent” nations.
Kim’s Call for Accelerated War Preparations
At the recent meeting of North Korea’s ruling party, Kim Jong Un outlined tasks for the People’s Army, munitions industry, nuclear weapons sector, and civil defense sectors, instructing them to intensify their preparations for war, according to the state-run news agency KCNA.
Read More: NYT Corrects Hunter Biden Quote Amidst Backlash For “Illiberal Bias”
North Korea’s Growing Ties with Russia
There have been recent accusations by Washington that North Korea is supplying military equipment to Russia for its conflict in Ukraine, and that Russia has been providing technical support for North Korea’s military advancements.
Enhancing Strategic Cooperation
In this backdrop, Kim Jong Un mentioned plans to expand strategic cooperation with “anti-imperialist independent” countries. This suggests a strengthening of ties with nations like Russia.
Economic Goals for the New Year
Kim Jong Un’s address also included economic objectives for the upcoming year. He referred to 2024 as a “decisive year” for achieving North Korea’s five-year development plan, emphasizing the need for progress in key industrial sectors.
Also Read: Trump’s Gag Order Appeal Gets Rejected
Agricultural Stability
Kim called for efforts to stabilize agricultural production at a high level. This is significant given North Korea’s history of food shortages, exacerbated by natural disasters and border closures during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Food Security Concerns
Although North Korea experienced a year-on-year increase in crop output in 2023 due to favorable weather conditions, experts warn that it remains insufficient to address the nation’s persistent food shortages. A Seoul official noted that food production still falls far short of the country’s needs.
The 9th Plenary Meeting
The 9th plenary meeting of the 8th central committee of the Workers’ Party of Korea commenced earlier this week. During this assembly of party and government officials, Kim Jong Un’s directives on war preparations and economic goals were made. These gatherings have become platforms for significant policy announcements in recent years.
Read More: Pressure Mounts on NATO Allies Following Germany’s Move to Deploy Military
North Korea’s Recent Actions
The past year witnessed North Korea incorporating nuclear policy into its constitution, launching a spy satellite, and test-firing a new intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM). These actions have raised international concerns and tensions.
Kim’s Speech Traditionally Released on New Year’s Day
Historically, state media has released Kim Jong Un’s New Year’s Day speech during such meetings, making them an important event in North Korean politics and policy-setting.
More From The Stock Dork – U.S., South Korea, Japan Enhance Missile Response to North Korean Tests
U.S., South Korea, Japan Enhance Missile Response to North Korean Tests
More From The Stock Dork – North Korea Claims Spy Satellite Captured Images of Key US Locations
North Korea Claims Spy Satellite Captured Images of Key US Locations
More From The Stock Dork – US Bombers Fly with Allies Amid Rising Tensions with North Korea
More From The Stock Dork – US, South Korea, Japan Hold Joint Exercises Amid Rising Tensions with North Korea
More From The Stock Dork – North Korea Test Fires Missile Capable of Reaching the US
Tags:
