North Korean President Kim Jong-un said that the upcoming Congress of the Workers' Party of Korea will announce the next phase plans to strongly strengthen the country's nuclear war deterrence capabilities. The information was published by North Korea's central news agency KCNA on January 28.
According to KCNA, Mr. Kim Jong-un directly directed the successful test of a large-caliber rocket artillery system.
The test is assessed to have shown significant improvements in the attack power, maneuverability and accuracy of this weapon.
Mr. Kim Jong-un emphasized that this is an important step in building a reliable offensive capability, serving a deterrent strategy to prevent any intentions to incite armed conflict from outside.
The North Korean leader believes that strengthening military power is a key policy of the Workers' Party to neutralize potential military provocations.
Chairman Kim Jong-un declared that the recent test will cause "serious mental pain" for forces seeking military confrontation with Pyongyang, and is a clear warning about the consequences of such actions.
Also according to KCNA, Mr. Kim Jong-un did not give specific details about the content of the plan to be announced at the upcoming Party Congress.
The time of the Congress has not yet been announced by North Korea, but it is expected to take place in the next few weeks. This event is being watched by observers in the context of North Korea continuously emphasizing the role of nuclear deterrence in its defense strategy.
Meanwhile, South Korea and Japan have condemned the launch, which they believe is North Korea's short-range ballistic missile, into the sea east of the peninsula.
These countries believe that this move violates UN resolutions prohibiting North Korea from developing ballistic missiles.
Pyongyang has repeatedly rejected criticisms, affirming that its military operations are defensive and a response to external pressure.
Kim Jong-un's latest statements show that North Korea continues to prioritize strengthening strategic deterrence, while considering this as a foundation to ensure national security in the context of a complex regional security environment.
