North Korea has rejected an International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), resolution criticising its nuclear weapons programme, insisting that its status as a nuclear power is irreversible.
The Foreign Ministry said the country’s nuclear deterrent would remain in place, dismissing the resolution adopted during the IAEA’s general conference as ineffective.
North Korean leader Kim Jong Un’s sister, Kim Yo Jong, accused the nuclear watchdog of applying double standards by overlooking what Pyongyang described as nuclear activities by the United States and South Korea.
She also criticised South Korea’s plans to introduce nuclear-powered submarines, while defending North Korea’s nuclear programme as necessary for self-defence.
The statements came as state media reported that Kim Jong Un had inspected major munitions factories during a three-day tour, amid efforts to expand the country’s military capabilities.
The latest development comes as Washington and Seoul signal interest in renewed dialogue with Pyongyang.
South Korean President, Lee Jae Myung, said U.S. President Donald Trump wants talks with North Korea, while Trump has indicated plans to meet Kim later this year.
