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The North held mass meetings for accomplishment of objectives in the New Year in the provinces with executives of Hamkyung-namdo, Pyongan-namdo, Hwanghae-namdo and provincial party and government bodies attending. A 2001 meeting for opening the door to unification by a "united Chosun nation" was held at the peoples cultural palace with Kim Young-nam, Choi Tae-bok, Yang Hyung-sup, and Kim Yong-soon attending (Jan.10), announcing afterward a so-called letter of appeal to the 70-million nation.
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In domestic news, Rodong shinmun (Jan.9), in connection with the New Year joint editorial, carried a pointed statement of opinion, insisting we have to fundamentally renovate ideological thinking to renew our speculations and practice. Central press reported (Jan.13) a spell of cold, dry weather with 130-150-cm heavy snow in Kangwon-do and 85-cm in Hwanghae-namdo, with negative effects onthe economy.
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In international news, Pyongyang broadcasting (Jan.9) criticized a visit with the U.S. secretary of state by the Japanese defense agency chief, scheduled at the end of January, as an attempt to continue hostile maneuvering, "crushing Chosun to death with the U.S. carried on its back." Minmin broadcasting (Jan.10) insisted that should the new Bush administration change the light-water reactor construction plan and attempt to alter the basic agreement, unexpected results may be produced.
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Regarding the North-South issue, the North Korean Chosun Red Cross central committee announced (Jan. 11) a statement proposing holding the 3rd Red Cross talks in January. A fishery agency spokesman announced (Jan.13) a statement that at the 4th North-South top-level talks, our side presented a proposal related to the North allowing the South side to carry out fishing in Northern fisheries in the East Sea, requesting that North-South working level contact be held in this regard.
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WEEKLY NK NEWS (2001.1.8 - 1.14)
