Pyongyang snubs West and restarts nuclear plant

North Korea has restarted its nuclear research plant, in defiance of aid-for-disarmament talks with the West.

Earlier a high-ranking official had warned that preparations were underway to bring the Yongbyon plant back on line because the reclusive Communist state had not received enough political compensation for mothballing it.

Pyongyang also hit back at rumours about the condition of its leader Kim Jong-Il, saying reports that he had suffered a stroke were malicious gossip.

The rumours started after Kim failed to appear at celebrations marking the 60th anniversary of North Korea, an event which normally trumpets the country’s political and social health.

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