North Korea discussed ways to cope with the intensifying international sanctions against the country during the party meeting attended by its leader Kim Jong-un on Oct. 7.

During the Cabinet meeting, participants "discussed ways to make a new leap in the construction of the socialist economic power resorting to the power of self-sufficiency and science technology" after reviewing problems arising from various economic sectors, according to the KCNA.

Pyongyang's emphasis on self-sufficiency and science technology apparently came out of a dire need to seek new ways to boost its economy at a time when most trade is officially blocked by sanctions.

The last extended plenary meeting of the Cabinet was held in January last year.

(Yonhap)