Pyongyang, August 19 (KCNA) -- Order of DPRK Friendship 2nd Class was awarded to Noriaki Ouchi, a researcher of the International Institute of the Juche Idea (IIJI), according to a decree of the Presidium of the DPRK Supreme People's Assembly.

He has contributed to the study and dissemination of the Juche idea founded by President Kim Il Sung and enriched and developed by leader Kim Jong Il and to the accomplishment of the cause of global independence.

The conferment ceremony took place at the Mansudae Assembly Hall on Thursday.

Present there were Yang Hyong Sop, vice-president of the SPA Presidium, and officials concerned.