Pyongyang

The South Korean government says the food shortage crisis in North Korea may be intensifying. Pyongyang reportedly cut food rations for its troops for the first time in more than 20 years.

South Korea’s unification ministry said on Tuesday that North Korean media said the Labor Party was planning to call an “urgent” meeting on the agricultural situation. considered to be accepted that the country is facing a severe food shortage crisis

“Their food situation seems to have deteriorated.” The unification ministry, which oversees cross-border affairs with North Korea, said in a statement.

North Korea has faced severe food shortages over the past few decades. This includes the great famines of the 1990s, largely caused by natural disasters that render crops ineffective.

The isolated communist state has also been hit by international sanctions to curb the development of nuclear weapons and has, in recent years, limited cross-border trade to stem the spread of COVID-19.

Dong A Il Bo Newspaper South Korea reported on Tuesday that North Korea had cut food rations for its troops for the first time since 2000, citing information from a senior South Korean official.

The Unification Ministry declined to confirm the details of the news. But he stressed that relevant ministries and agencies are closely monitoring the situation in North Korea.

KCNA news agency reported on Feb. 6 that North Korea had called a meeting of the Workers’ Party Central Committee later this month. “To carry out the important and urgent task of formulating a suitable strategy for agricultural development.”

The Ministry of Unification noted that Such extraordinary meetings are not uncommon in North Korea.

38 North, a group of researchers in the US who monitor the movements of North Korea stated last month that “The amount of food North Korea currently has is likely to fall below the level of most basic human needs.” It is the worst food security crisis since the 1990s.

South Korean Unification Minister Kwon Young-sae It also noted that leader Kim Jong Un’s diligence with his “daughter” during this period was likely intended to boost morale and strengthen loyalty to the Kim family. in the midst of difficult situations

“The food situation in North Korea doesn’t look good. We saw many warning signs. But it’s not yet to the point that many people are dying of starvation,” Kwon said.

Kwon also said North Korea had requested help to the World Food Program (WFP), but talks had not progressed. Because the two sides still can’t agree on the observation of assistance

Source: Reuters