Kim Jong-Un lauded what he called his country’s fight against a US-led military threat and vowed to turn North Korea into “the best socialist paradise in the world,” as he addressed state anniversary celebrations in the presence of Chinese, Russian and other foreign dignitaries.
Kim’s speech on the eve of the 80th founding anniversary of the ruling Workers’ Party comes as he is trying to bolster an anti-West partnership with other countries, even as he signalled interest in resuming diplomacy.
The pinnacle of the North Korean anniversary events would be a military parade at a Pyongyang plaza, where Kim will likely stand alongside other leaders to watch together the display of some of his newest and most advanced weapons targeting the United States and its allies.
Kim’s diplomatic credentials have been bolstered recently. He took centre stage with Chinese leader Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladmir Putin at a Beijing military parade last month.
US President Donald Trump and South Korean President Lee Jae-myung have also repeatedly expressed hopes to meet Kim as he flaunts a nuclear programme.
In a Thursday speech at Pyongyang’s May Day Stadium packed with tens of thousands of spectators, Kim said North Korea has been pushing for the simultaneous development of nuclear weapons and the economy to cope with “growing nuclear war threats by the US imperialists”, according to state media.
Kim also expressed confidence in overcoming difficulties and drastically improving the economy in the near future.
“I will surely turn this country into a more affluent and beautiful land and into the best socialist paradise in the world,” Kim said.
Foreign dignitaries attending the celebration included Chinese Premier Li Qiang, former Russian president Dmitry Medvedev and Communist Party General Secretary To Lam. State media photos showed Kim waving between Li and To Lam, as the central section of the stands used cards to spell out the words “Celebrating the 80th Anniversary of the Workers’ Party of Korea” and fireworks lit up the sky.
Kim separately met Li and To Lam for talks on strengthening ties, and one of his top deputies, Jo Yong-won, met Medvedev. — AP
