The world can breathe a bit easier now because Kim Jong-un has taken certain decisions that will push the fears of a nuclear war into the background. The leader of North Korea has announced that he will put on hold the testing of nuclear and long range missiles and shut down the atomic test site. These are welcome signs ahead of the Summit Meeting to be held between Donald Trump and Kim Jong-un.
Sky News reports that the decision was taken in consultation with the ruling party's full Central Committee. It had met to discuss and chalk out new strategies in view of changed circumstances.
Kim explained that the country has proved to the world its capabilities in the field of nuclear weapons. Hence, further work in this area can be stopped. The KCNA has added that the decision will help to build a socialist economy.
Reactions of the world
Kim Jong-un is scheduled to meet Moon Jae-in, the leader of South Korea, for a mini-summit before the main one with Donald Trump. Moon Jae-in has always wanted to reunify the Koreas ever since he took over the reins and feels the indications are positive. The North appears to be in a mood to normalize the relations with the South, especially after the 2018 Winter Olympics.
The US President has welcomed the announcement and added that he was looking forward to the summit meeting with Kim.
Japan's Prime Minister Shinzo Abe has also welcomed the move. However, he feels it should be possible to verify the denuclearization. Japan will continue to pressurize Pyongyang to destroy its complete inventory of weapons.
Britain has said North Korea's plan to cease nuclear tests was a positive step. They will associate with concerned agencies in order to ensure a total denuclearization of the Korean peninsula through peaceful means.
China is the main ally of North Korea. They have also welcomed the announcement and hope that the country will now focus its attention towards developing its economy and improving the living standards of its people.
The future scenario
North Korea has been pursuing its nuclear ambitions for decades and has diverted its resources to develop nuclear missiles and ICBMs.
The country had ignored global condemnation and sent missiles flying towards Japan, an ally of the United States and had identified a couple of US targets for missile attacks.
Therefore, it had to face trade sanctions that have affected its economy. Kim Jong-un and his people will have to work hard to turn over a new leaf which will require tremendous determination. The summit meeting with Donald Trump is expected to define new boundaries and a revised code of conduct for North Korea.