The diplomatic envoys and representatives of international bodies here were present at the reception on invitation.

Foreign Minister Ri Yong Ho in his speech referred to the fact that a dynamic all-people general offensive is now under way to carry out the highly important tasks set forth by respected Supreme Leader Kim Jong Un in his New Year Address.

He expressed thanks to various countries and international bodies for encouraging the Korean people in their efforts to recover from the flood damage in the northern part of North Hamgyong Province with sincere aid last year.

He said that the DPRK would boost the good-neighborly and friendly and cooperative ties with the countries advocating independence this year, too.

Ismail Ahmed Mohamed Hasan, Palestinian ambassador to the DPRK who is doyen of the diplomatic corps, hoped in his speech that the Korean people would achieve successes and make steady progress in carrying out the 5-year strategy for national economic development.

He also hoped that lasting peace and stability would settle on the Korean peninsula, wishing the friendly Korean people greater progress and prosperity in the new year, too.