North Korean leader Kim Jong Un pledges to solidify and develop the economy over the next five years, calling it a “full-scale progress phase”.
SEOUL: North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has said the country will solidify and develop the quality of its economy over the next five years. State media KCNA reported the announcement on Tuesday.
The statement was made during the ongoing Ninth Party Congress of the Workers’ Party. The congress sets out major policy goals for the coming half-decade.
Kim called the next five years a “full-scale progress phase” in a speech on Monday. He called for revolutionising thought, technology and culture so new projects will be well-managed over time.
READ MORE: Kim Jong Un re-elected as North Korea’s party leader
Congress members have started setting plans and goals for sectors including military, foreign policy, industry and agriculture. The meeting began last week.
In a separate development, Kim’s powerful sister, Kim Yo Jong, was given a promotion. KCNA reported she was named a party department director, having previously served as vice-director.
Chinese President Xi Jinping also sent a message to congratulate Kim on his reelection as general secretary of the ruling party. The message was confirmed by North Korean state media.
