PYONGYANG, November 2. /TASS/. The DPRK has no plans to alter its course toward the accelerated buildup of its nuclear deterrent forces in response to the military activities of the United States and the Republic of Korea, Kim Jong Sik, first vice department director of the Central Committee of the Workers' Party of Korea (WPK), said, the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) reported.
"We are confident in our capabilities and determined to respond to everything," he said, adding that "the national defense policy of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK), which aims to bolster the country's nuclear war deterrent at an even faster pace, will not change in the slightest."
Kim Jong Sik condemned the US-South Korea joint exercises Iron Mace, which were conducted from September 29 to October 2. According to him, the maneuvers, during which the joint use of US nuclear forces and South Korean conventional weapons was practiced, were "the most hideous nuclear war rehearsal aimed at using nuclear weapons against the DPRK."
The North Korean official also highlighted the Hoguk and Freedom Flag exercises held in South Korea in October, as well as the Keen Sword exercise in Japan. He said that Washington and its allies are intensifying military activity in the region, including the deployment of intelligence units and aircraft sent from the United States.
According to Kim Jong Sik, North Korea is confident in its capabilities and ready to respond to any developments. Pyongyang will continue to build up its nuclear forces, which it views as a means of protecting national sovereignty and maintaining peace in the region, he said.