In the wake of the 9th Congress of the Workers’ Party, North Korea has prominently showcased the production achievements of the Sangwon Cement Industrial Complex, emphasizing economic success and fostering an atmosphere of loyalty. The Rodong Sinmun reported on diplomatic efforts alongside progress in agriculture and construction, reinforcing a message of regime cohesion.
The Workers’ Party’s official newspaper, Rodong Sinmun, reported on its front page that the Sangwon Cement Industrial Complex has maintained an average daily production rate of 115% since the party congress. The paper quoted Kim Jong Un, General Secretary of the Workers’ Party, lauding the working class as the era’s honorable model while underscoring these production achievements.
The newspaper also reported production successes at raw material and fuel supply units, including the Samchong Mine, Hwachon Coal Mine, and Sangwon Limestone Mine. It specifically highlighted breakthroughs in increased production through technological innovations, improved equipment utilization, and the implementation of scientific advancements.
Furthermore, the paper reported that General Secretary Kim sent a reply to Chinese President Xi Jinping’s congratulatory message, emphasizing the traditional friendship between the two nations. In his response, Kim expressed his commitment to further deepen and develop the cooperative relationship between North Korea and China.
On page 2, the paper spotlighted the Onpo Workers’ Resort, showcasing General Secretary Kim’s dedication to the people’s welfare. The newspaper noted that the resort has been transformed into a comprehensive hot spring cultural and recreational facility, emphasizing improvements in workers’ quality of life.
The same page introduced modernization achievements at the irrigation repair factory, promoting policies for rural infrastructure improvement and the completion of irrigation systems.
Page 3 reported on grand choir performances by graduating high school students from various districts in Pyongyang. The paper emphasized the new generation’s willingness to serve in the military and their resolve to defend the homeland.
On page 4, the newspaper announced that the youth tunneling squad at the Kumgol Mine of the Kumdok Mining Industrial Complex had exceeded its tunneling plan for the first half of the year, highlighting the spirit of competition among young miners.
Page 5 featured an editorial titled, Break the Policy of Conservatism, which stressed the responsibility and loyalty of officials. It also introduced achievements related to the modernization of construction equipment, evaluations of finishing materials, training programs for construction workers, and the expansion of building material production facilities. Additionally, the paper reported on irrigation measures and agricultural techniques being implemented in preparation for potential drought conditions.
On page 6, the newspaper reported that the Russian Foreign Ministry had characterized the U.S.-South Korea joint military exercise Freedom Shield as a war drill. It also conveyed criticisms from the United Nations (UN) human rights experts regarding Israel and statements from Lebanon’s Hezbollah.