Kim Yo-jong: "The Declaration to End the War Is Not Bad... If Not Hostile, Discussing the Restoration of Relations" (Comprehensive)

[Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Lee Ji-eun] Less than a day after North Korea's Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a statement calling President Moon Jae-in's 'End-of-War Declaration' premature, Kim Yo-jong, Deputy Director of the Workers' Party, stated in a separate statement that "the End-of-War Declaration is not bad" and that if there is no hostility, discussions on restoring relations could take place.

In her statement on the 24th, Kim said, "The End-of-War Declaration, which means physically ending the long-standing unstable armistice status on the Korean Peninsula and withdrawing hostility toward the other side, is an interesting proposal and a good idea."

While saying "the End-of-War Declaration is not bad," Kim emphasized, "However, we must first consider whether the timing is appropriate and whether all conditions are satisfactory for such discussions."

The statement argued that under the ongoing circumstances of double standards, prejudice, hostile policies, and actions against North Korea, the End-of-War Declaration makes no sense, asserting, "For the End-of-War to be declared, mutual respect between both sides must be guaranteed, and prejudiced views, severe hostile policies, and unfair double standards toward the other side must first be withdrawn."

Kim advised the South Korean side, saying, "Once these preconditions are met, meaningful End-of-War declarations can be made face-to-face, and discussions on inter-Korean relations and the future of the Korean Peninsula can be held. You should focus on preparing these conditions."

She added, "If South Korea refrains from provoking us unnecessarily, stops applying double standards, and ceases to nitpick over every issue as in the past, and if future actions are carefully considered and not hostile, we are willing to maintain close communication between the North and South and engage in constructive discussions on restoring relations and prospects for development."

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