S Korea, US discussing joint nuclear exercises, says Yoon
Al JazeeraNov 30, 2022
North Korea Closes Multiple Embassies Worldwide
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The Facts
Media reports and analysts claim that North Korea intends to disengage its diplomatic presence in up to twelve nations around the world, including its embassies in Spain, Hong Kong, and several African nations. This would mean that Pyongyang would cut its overseas missions by almost a quarter.
The recent shutdown of North Korea's diplomatic offices abroad, according to South Korea's Unification Ministry on Tuesday, is an indication that the country is finding it difficult to generate revenue abroad as a result of international sanctions.
The Spin
Pro-establishment narrative
North Korea's leadership is closing its diplomatic missions throughout the globe because it can no longer afford to keep them. This indicates that the international sanctions imposed on the North are working. As a result, Pyongyang is finding it more difficult to obtain foreign currency to retain even the barest of diplomatic ties with its long-standing relationships.
Establishment-critical narrative
Pyongyang has decided to reduce the number of its foreign missions, including those in Spain and Uganda. There is nothing dramatic behind this decision, it's a strategic choice to increase the efficiency of North Korea's external institutions. Pyongyang is determined to continue strengthening its relations with these friendly nations through its other regional missions.
