North Korea’s Strategic Move Towards Economic Recovery: A Balance Between Stricter COVID-19 Measures and International Relations

North Korea’s Strategic Move Towards Economic Recovery: A Balance Between Stricter COVID-19 Measures and International Relations

A New Strategy Amidst The Pandemic

North Korea has announced a new strategy aimed at recovery from the economic downturn resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic and prolonged economic sanctions. As per recent reports relayed by Chinese state-run television, North Korea has enforced a mandatory two-day quarantine for individuals entering the country. This is seen as a part of North Korea’s COVID-19 prevention strategy, which has been in place since January 2020.

Despite strict border control, North Korea has been gradually reopening its borders for people crossing to and from the country. In a significant move, nearly 200 athletes have been dispatched to the Asian Games being held in China, indicating a step towards normalization of person-to-person exchanges.

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An Attempt To Boost Foreign Relations

Alongside its efforts to control the pandemic, North Korea is also making strategic moves to boost its international relations. Earlier this month, the Chinese ambassador in Pyongyang held a meeting with a senior official from North Korea’s tourism authority. The meeting expressed hope for the early normalization of person-to-person exchanges between the two countries.

Moreover, under the leadership of Kim Jong-un, North Korea has emphasized its policy to expand economic cooperation with Russia. This was evident when the leader visited Russia this month, breaking the hiatus of four years.

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Reviving the Economy

The primary aim of these moves is to revive North Korea’s economy, which has suffered significantly due to prolonged economic sanctions. By boosting human exchanges with foreign countries, primarily with its backers China and Russia, North Korea is not only aiming to earn foreign currency but also looking to revive its economy.

However, this approach does not come without its challenges, especially considering the country’s strict COVID-19 measures and the global political environment. Nevertheless, these steps indicate North Korea’s strategic shift towards economic recovery and its efforts to strengthen its international relations amidst the ongoing pandemic.

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