Rodong Shinmun, the mouthpiece of the Chosun Workers’ Party, has positively evaluated the reforms which are bringing rapid Chinese economic development.
In an editorial published today, “Groundbreaking Event Bringing a New Milestone in the History of the North Korea-China Friendship,” it stated, “Socialist China is achieving swift development, guaranteeing the country’s prosperity.”
It went on, “Under the leadership of the Chinese Communist Party led by the Secretary General, Comrade Hu Jintao, the Chinese people have been struggling powerfully for the construction of a socialist society in the Chinese characteristic way under the banner of Deng Xiaoping’s Theory, the three representative theories and the outlook of scientific development.”
It emphasized, “Our people are delighted with the changing Chinese appearance and great achievements, and give them our firm support and solidarity.”
“We believe that the Chinese people can bring about bigger advancements in the struggle for their nations’ unity while constructing a wealthy society.”
However, the editorial did not mention “reform” or “renovation” at all, instead describing “a socialist society in the Chinese characteristic way.”
Deng Xiaoping Theory (or Dengism) is the theory which launched the socialist market economy in China, giving up the proletariat dictatorship for the benefit of the entrepreneurs and intelligentsia, in addition to laborers and farmers. As it was famously put; “Who cares if a cat is black or white, as long as it catches mice.”
The three representative theories are the guiding force behind China’s development, encompassing Marxism, Maoism and Deng Xiaoping’s Theory as one core set.
The outlook for scientific development is President Hu Jintao’s own idea to emphasize stability and redistribution alongside development.
The editorial seems to go further than Kim Jong Il’s own words, which he said during his visit to China last week, “After reform and opening, China is alive everywhere due to rapid development.”
Although it reads positively, experts suggest that this editorial cannot be read as a sign that the North Korean regime actually plans to move toward reform and opening, because it seems merely to be a reaction to China’s strong request that Kim Jong Il reform and open his country.
