North Korea: US relations depend on Washington's attitude

"If the US withdraws its policy of confrontation with North Korea by respecting our country's current status ... there is no reason why we cannot get along well. We have a prospective to strengthen our national nuclear force, and will on projects to increase the number of nuclear weapons and expand nuclear operational means and space for use."

"He also ruled out any discussions with South Korea which he described as Pyongyang's "most hostile enemy." Kim threatened to "initiate arbitrary action" if Seoul were to conduct what he called "obnoxious behavior," saying: "South Korea's complete collapse cannot be ruled out.""

"Kim said the North no longer considered the South as "compatriots," having "permanently excluded" them from that category. He dismissed recent signals of detente from the South as "deceptive" and said North Korea had "absolutely no business" dealing with the South, with whom it is technically still at war."

North Korea's ninth Workers' Party congress concluded with Kim Jong Un presenting major policy goals for the next five years and a military parade showcasing armed forces capabilities. Kim stated that improved US relations require Washington to abandon its confrontational policy and respect North Korea's status, though he has rejected recent meeting overtures from President Trump. Kim announced plans to strengthen the national nuclear force, increase nuclear weapons numbers, and expand nuclear operational capabilities. He rejected all dialogue with South Korea, labeling it the "most hostile enemy" and threatening "arbitrary action" if Seoul engages in "obnoxious behavior." Kim dismissed South Korean detente signals as deceptive and stated North Korea no longer considers South Koreans as compatriots. The congress re-elected Kim as general secretary.

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