NKorea party congress pushes nuclear weapons expansion

PYONGYANG: North Korea's first ruling party congress for nearly 40 years formally endorsed leader Kim Jong-un's policy of expanding the country's nuclear arsenal, as South Korea on Monday dismissed his proposals for military talks and improved ties.

The congress, which opened on Friday, has largely been seen as an elaborate coronation for the 33-year-old Kim, securing his status as supreme leader and confirming his legacy "byungjin" doctrine of twin economic and nuclear development.