North Korean leader Kim Jong-un has outlined a bold vision for the future, proclaiming plans to expand the nation’s nuclear arsenal while also addressing economic development over the next five years. This declaration came during the week-long Ninth Congress of the ruling Workers’ Party, which concluded with a significant military parade in Pyongyang.
Nuclear Arsenal Expansion
According to state media KCNA, Kim emphasised the party’s intention to enhance North Korea’s status as a nuclear power. He stated, “It is our party’s firm will to further expand and strengthen our national nuclear power,” highlighting a focus on increasing the quantity and quality of nuclear weapons. Key initiatives include:
- Developing advanced intercontinental ballistic missiles.
- Creating attack systems that utilise artificial intelligence.
- Implementing the use of unmanned drones.
Relations with the US
While expressing intentions to bolster military capabilities, Kim left the door ajar for future discussions with the United States, dependent on the US’s approach to North Korea. He mentioned, “If the US withdraws its policy of confrontation… there is no reason why we cannot get along well with the US.” However, Kim remains critical of South Korea, labelling it as the