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The U. S. State Department surprised the world Wednesday when it announced progress in its negotiations with North Korea about its nuclear program. North Korea agreed to suspend uranium enrichment, nuclear testing, and long-range missile development in exchange for close to a quarter of a million tons of food from the U.S. to alleviate the critical shortage of food for the country's inhabitants.
Viewing the breakthrough with cautious optimism, Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton said it was a modest step forward and indicated that the country will be closely watched to ensure it follows through with its promises. Kim Jong-un is still new to the role of leader and little is known about how he intends to run the country; thus, it is difficult to gauge his sincerity.
North Korea also agreed to another important step toward nuclear disarmament. It will allow the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) inspectors to enter the Yongbyon nuclear complex for the first time since 2009.
White House spokesman Jay Carney said North Korea’s latest commitments “are very welcome, but obviously they need to be followed up by action.” North Korea has a history of reneging on its promises, so, while this announcement raises hopes for a positive outcome, the Obama administration has adopted a "wait and see' attitude.
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