13:13, 21-Apr-2018
DPRK Suspends Nuclear Tests: Kim Jong Un: No need for nuclear, missile tests now
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We begin on the Korean Peninsula where the denuclearization issue could be seeing some progress. DPRK leader Kim Jong Un has announced the suspension of nuclear testing. He made this announcement during a speech at a plenary meeting of the Workers' Party of Korea on Friday. Kim said there is no need to continue running these tests. CGTN's Ma Ke has more.
The DPRK "will stop nuclear tests and launches of intercontinental ballistic missiles", effective immediately. DPRK state media outlet KCNA quoted Kim as saying that in speech made at the Third Plenary meeting of the Seventh Central Committee of the Workers' Party of Korea.
KRT NEWS READER "The DPRK will stop nuclear tests and launches of intercontinental ballistic missiles from April 21, 2018. To guarantee suspension of nuclear tests in a transparent manner, the republic's northern nuclear test site will be abolished."
Kim said Pyongyang will never use nuclear weapons, unless there is a "nuclear threat or provocation", and will "in no case proliferate nuclear weapons and nuclear technology." Kim also told party members that from now on, all Pyongyang's efforts will be concentrated on building up a strong socialist economy.
The surprise announcement comes just before Kim is set to meet South Korean President Moon Jae-in, and possibly US President Trump. Next Friday, Kim will go to the Demilitarized Zone that has divided the peninsula since the Korean War. He will be the first DPRK leader to do so since the fighting ended. Ma Ke, CGTN.