North Korean leader Kim Jong Un says Pyongyang has suspended its nuclear and long-range missile tests,
and will shut down its atomic test site."From April 21, North Korea will stop nuclear tests and launches of intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs),"
South Korea's Yonhap news agency quoted North Korean state media as saying.
"The North will shut down a nuclear test site in the country's northern side to prove the vow to suspend nuclear test."
The decision was made in a meeting of the ruling party's full Central Committee, which had convened to discuss
a "new stage" of policies.
Mr Kim told the committee: "As the weaponisation of nuclear weapons has been verified, it is not necessary for us
to conduct any more nuclear tests or test launches of mid- and long-range missiles or ICBMs.
"The northern nuclear test site has completed its mission."
The move comes less than a week before Mr Kim is due to meet South Korean leader Moon Jae-in for a rare summit,
and ahead of a much-anticipated meeting with US President Donald Trump.
President Trump welcomed the North's announcement, calling it "big progress".
He tweeted: "North Korea has agreed to suspend all Nuclear Tests and close up a major test site.
"This is very good news for North Korea and the World - big progress! Look forward to our Summit."
Pyongyang has made rapid technological progress in its weapons programmes under Mr Kim, which has seen
it subjected to strict sanctions by the UN Security Council, US, EU, South Korea and other countries.
Guests: 379
Hidden: 0
Users: 0