Geneva: The head of North Korea's legislative body has accused the United States and South Korea of preparing to "actualize" a nuclear war, asserting that North Korea's nuclear development is crucial for its self-defense and security in the face of such threats.
According to Yonhap News Agency, Pak In-chol, chairman of North Korea's Supreme People's Assembly, made these claims during a United Nations-led meeting of top legislators in Switzerland. Pak attributed the cause of "instability and chaos" to the U.S. and other Western nations, which he accused of maintaining their "hegemonic position."
Pak stated through an interpreter at the sixth World Conference of Speakers of Parliament that the preparations by the United States and South Korea for a nuclear conflict have reached a critical stage. He emphasized that this situation necessitates North Korea taking all necessary measures to address the geopolitical crisis and protect its sovereignty and territorial integrity.
The Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK), as North Korea is officially known, claims that its nuclear capabilities are essential for responding to various security threats. Pak insisted that North Korea will not tolerate the "high-handedness" of the U.S. and its allies and will uphold its responsibility to defend international justice.
Pak also highlighted North Korea's efforts toward the "prosperity and happiness" of its citizens, mentioning long-term development plans aimed at improving education, health care, and science. He asserted that the North Korean people are achieving significant successes in their pursuit of overall development.
Meanwhile, South Korea's National Assembly Speaker, Woo Won-shik, attended the same meeting and emphasized the importance of keeping communication channels open between the two Koreas, despite the ongoing tensions in their relationship. However, no direct encounter between Woo and Pak was reported at the event.