North Korean leader Kim Jong-un opened the ninth congress of the Workers' Party of Korea, pledging to boost the economy amid Western sanctions. The rare meeting, held every five years, will outline policies on defense, diplomacy, and economy. China has applauded the conclave, emphasizing strong bilateral ties.
The ninth congress of the Workers' Party of Korea opened in Pyongyang on Thursday, a rare event held once every five years that offers a glimpse into the secretive nation's inner workings.
Kim Jong-un said in his opening speech: “Today, our party is faced with heavy and urgent historic tasks of boosting economic construction and the people’s standard of living and transforming all realms of state and social life as early as possible.” He added: “This requires us to wage a more active and persistent struggle without allowing even a moment’s standstill or stagnation.”
North Korea’s economy has been languishing under heavy Western sanctions that aim to choke off funding for its nuclear weapons programme. The congress is expected to run for several days, outlining major policy goals in areas ranging from defence to diplomacy and economy.
Meanwhile, the Communist Party of China’s Central Committee sent a message to the Workers’ Party, stating that the meeting was of “great significance” and wishing the North Korean people “continued success in their socialist construction under the strong leadership” of the party and its leader, Kim. China said it has always attached strong importance to developing relations with North Korea and is willing to deepen exchanges and contribute to regional peace, stability, development and prosperity. Xi Jinping says China stands firm on strategic ties with North Korea.
The event highlights North Korea's policy priorities amid economic challenges and the enduring importance of China-North Korea relations.
