North Korea appoints hardline ex-army officer as new foreign minister
(The Guardian North Korea)

Analysts say appointment of Ri Son-gwon suggests tougher stance on nuclear talks with US North Korea has appointed a former army officer with a reputation as a hardliner as its foreign minister, in a possible sign that it is to adopt a tougher stance in nuclear negotiations with the United States.After days of speculation, the KCNA state news agency confirmed on Friday that Ri Son-gwon - who has little diplomatic experience - had replaced Ri Yong-ho, an English-speaking career diplomat who took part in nuclear talks with Washington. Related: Kim Jong-un signals North Korea could resume nuclear missile tests Continue reading...