Manila:North Korea has accused Japan of using its pursuit of nuclear-powered submarines as a strategic step towards acquiring nuclear weapons.
According to Yonhap News Agency, the claim was made by international security analyst Pak Ju-won in an article published by the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA). Pak argued that Japan's neo-militarist forces aim to formalize the possession of nuclear-powered submarines as a precursor to securing nuclear weapons in the future.
Pak referenced recent statements from Japanese officials, suggesting that Japan intends to sway public opinion to support including nuclear-related issues in its upcoming security document revisions. He noted that Japanese Defense Minister Shinjiro Koizumi has indicated the government is considering revising its three nonnuclear principles and is open to acquiring nuclear-powered submarines. Koizumi stated Japan should discuss nuclear matters without restrictions.
The North Korean analyst criticized Japan for allegedly abandoning its postwar policy of limiting military force to self-defense, which he believes disrupts regional military balance and intensifies conflict. Pak asserted that the situation justifies North Korea's efforts to strengthen its defenses to protect its sovereignty and security.
He further warned that Japan's efforts to obtain nuclear-powered submarines as a step towards nuclear armament could lead to disaster for the country.