SEOUL, January 29 (AJP) - North Korean leader Kim Jong-un has inspected a nuclear-material production facility and a nuclear weapons institute, underscoring the necessity of bolstering the nation’s nuclear capabilities, according to the North's state media Wednesday.
Kim’s visit, which was not dated in the report by the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA), comes just days after U.S. President Donald Trump signaled an interest in reengaging with the North Korean leader.
Kim’s remarks suggest he remains committed to a confrontational stance rather than pursuing diplomatic outreach. The KCNA did not disclose the specific location of Kim’s visit.
During the inspection, Kim reviewed the core processes involved in producing weapons-grade nuclear materials and assessed the current state of production, KCNA said.
Kim emphasized that North Korea’s security environment, which he described as one of “long-term confrontation,” necessitates the steady enhancement of its nuclear deterrent to safeguard national sovereignty and strategic interests.
“The external situation remains grave, and the challenges posed by hostile forces are becoming more pronounced,” Kim was quoted as saying. He argued that expanding North Korea’s nuclear arsenal at an accelerating rate provides a strategic advantage against its adversaries.
Kim further asserted that North Korea’s nuclear forces were growing stronger “day by day” and reaffirmed his belief that “guaranteeing peace and security through strength” was the country’s fundamental approach.
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