Pyongyang, December 20 (KCNA) -- The land of Jagang is stricken with deep grief at the loss of leader Kim Jong Il who devoted all his life to the freedom and happiness of the people, reunification of the nation and human cause of independence.

The statue of President Kim Il Sung is being visited by an increasing number of people.

Kim Jong Il, determined to open a breakthrough toward victory in the province during the Arduous March, visited the province time and again despite the intense midwinter cold and sweltering midsummer heat and brightly indicated the direction and way for it to follow. Yearning for his image the people vowed to carry out his last instructions to the letter.

Jo Jae Yong, 58, manager of the Huichon Ryonha General Machinery Plant, said: Kim Jong Il indicated the way to be followed by the plant in a friendly and ringing voice with a sunny smile on his face.

Giving field guidance to the plant in October he said the whole country is now benefiting from Ryonha machines, adding Ryonha is a friendly fellow traveler of our party. The workers of our plant will cherish that trust and honor and dash ahead like wind in the van of the industrial revolution of the new century.

Ri Sung Nam, 53, manager of the Kanggye Essential Foodstuff Factory, said Kim Jong Il did not pass away, vowing they would overcome the hard time under the leadership of General Kim Jong Un and remain faithful to the Songun leadership of the Party.

Pak Song Chol, 45, manager of the Kanggye Koryo Medicine Factory, said: We will absolutely entrust our destiny to General Kim Jong Un and keep to the path of Juche led by him. This is a unanimous pledge of not only me but all other employees.