Pyongyang, May 23 (KCNA) -- The Standing Committee of the Supreme People's Assembly (SPA) of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea sent a congratulatory message to the 26th Congress of the General Association of Korean Residents in Japan (Chongryon) on May 23.

In the message the SPA Standing Committee of the DPRK warmly congratulated the 26th Congress of Chongryon convened with splendor in the historic period when a solemn struggle was launched to carry forward the glorious and patriotic history of Chongryon for all ages with redoubled courage and fighting spirit along with a proud era when the dignity and might of the DPRK are being demonstrated on the highest level.

During the period under review, Chongryon has overcome the worst challenges and hardships with its unshakable patriotic faith and the inexhaustible strength of the compatriots as the driving force, redoubled its organizing ability and unity and fully demonstrated the steadfastness of the sacred ideal and spirit of the Juche-oriented movement of Koreans in Japan on the occasion of the 70th anniversary of its formation, the message said.

Expressing belief that the 26th Congress of Chongryon would serve as a historic occasion in encouraging Chongryon to advance toward the annals of fresh struggle and changes for writing a new great history of the movement of Koreans in Japan in hearty response to the historic letter sent by the respected Comrade Kim Jong Un on the occasion of the 70th anniversary of the formation of Chongryon, the message sincerely wished the congress great success in its work. -0-