North Koreas Kim Orders Navy to Build 10,000-Tonne Destroyer

North Korean Leader Inspects Military Sites Ahead of Chinese President’s Visit

Pyongyang, North Korea - North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has been visiting military sites in the days leading up to a scheduled meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping next week. According to reports from the state-run Rodong Sinmun newspaper, Kim supervised a naval test on Thursday, inspecting two warships: the Kang Kon and the Choe Hyon.

The Kang Kon, a 5,000-tonne destroyer, had previously experienced technical issues during a launch ceremony in May 2023. The ship was repaired at Rajin port before being re-launched with a second ceremony. Kim’s visit to the naval site came as he continues to inspect military and weapons facilities ahead of Xi’s visit.

During his inspection, Kim was accompanied by his daughter, believed to be Ju Ae, according to a photo released by the state news outlet. In a recent statement, Kim called for an “exponential” expansion of North Korea’s atomic arsenal, citing the need for enhanced naval capabilities to deter nuclear attacks.

Xi is set to visit Pyongyang from June 8 to 9, marking his second trip to the country in seven years. The Chinese leader aims to strengthen ties with North Korea, which has maintained close relations with Russia.

Source: Al Jazeera