Abstract
Dr. Mansourov analyzes the impact of ongoing economic recovery and reformist movement in the DPRK on its willingness to seek compromises in international negotiations over its external security arrangements. Domestic preconditions for economic takeoff are studied and appraised in the context of the July 1 reforms. The author identifies different scenarios of the possible impact of external security stimulus on the prospects for economic takeoff and infrastructure development in the DPRK. He also evaluates the possible impact of the UN Security Council sanctions under resolutions 1695 and 1718 on the future prospects for domestic economic and political transformation in North Korea. In the end, Dr. Mansourov concludes that North Korea will be able to stabilize its internal situation and settle on a more normal path of development, including better and more stable relations with the United States, without abandoning its nuclear capabilities or fundamental regime objectives.
LINK