Business/Economics, International, U.S.

World War 3: North Korea warns South to evacuate disputed islands! Cuban officials meet with North Korean leaders! China increases business activity with North Korea despite sanctions!

16 March 2013/04 Jumada l-Ula 1434/26 Esfand 1391/05 Yi-Mao (2nd month) 4711

DPRK media sources have indicated that the disputed island of Yeonpyeong might be the first target of their war for reunification. They specifically name the ROK Marine Corps commander in charge of the island defenses, and say he’s ignorant of what’s coming his way; “showers of fire”.

North Korea’s media also said they are waiting for any mistake made by U.S. led forces during their Key Resolve war games.  It appears DPRK leaders will use any mistake, like live fire crossing into North Korea, as an excuse to launch their reunification offensive.

China has increased border business trade with Democratic People’s Republic of Korea.  A new bridge will be built across the Apnok (Yalu) River.  Also, a Chinese company has secured the use of a dock which will allow for greater coal shipments from North Korea.

There are reports that truck transports have increased along the Hunchun-Rajin-Sonbong route.

DPRK has created a special economic zone in Rajin-Sonbong. Chinese reports say the economic zone is powered by wind mills, and lights can be seen at night where there were none before. Also, all visible DPRK military units have moved out of that area. Koreans are being encouraged to move into the area with low commercial property rents.  China has been invited to help develop the economic zone.

Other Chinese reports say that the increased trade is partly the result of North Korea easing up on their cash only policy.

On 13 March 2013, China and the DPRK began joint construction of an industrial park on Hwanggumpyong Island, in the lower reaches of the Duman (Tumen) River.  China is also in the process of laying a bullet train railway to the border with North Korea.  They hope to have it finished by 2015.

China voted for the latest UN sanctions against the DPRK, but the increased business activities suggest they have no intention of enforcing those sanctions.

And yesterday, officials from Cuba began meetings with North Korea’s Committee for Solidarity with Cuba.  The officials are planning their actions for the next year.

 

Written by: Hutchins AAron on March 16, 2013.