North Korea appoints man under US sanctions as new head of state
Tehran (KNA) - North Korea has named a new head of state, replacing a senior leader charged with representing Pyongyang in international engagements.
Choe Ryong Hae was named President of the Presidium of the Supreme People's Assembly of North Korea during the first session of the 14th Supreme People's Assembly held Thursday, Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) said.
Choe, 69, has deep ties with the ruling Kim family and was recently sanctioned by the United States.
The person holding the position is technically considered North Korea's head of state and usually represents the country at diplomatic events.
The real power, however, is believed to remain concentrated in leader Kim Jong-un's hands.
Choe replaced Kim Yong Nam, who held the position for almost 20 years.
Kim, 91, appeared in a number of international engagements last year, including summits-held separately- between leader Kim Kong-un and US President Donald Trump; Chinese President Xi Jinping and South Korean President Moon Jae-in.
Source: PressTV