Pyongyang, February 24 (KCNA) -- Following are major news items and articles in leading newspapers of the DPRK on Saturday:

The respected Comrade Kim Jong Un was present at the ground-breaking ceremony for building 10 000 flats at the third stage in the Hwasong Area. (photos accompanied)

The 37th Science and Technology Festival of Kim Il Sung University took place.

An article deals with the proud 60-year-long history of the February 8 Jikdong Youth Coal Mine.

Kim Son Gyong, vice-minister for International Organizations of the DPRK Foreign Ministry, in a press statement accused the U.S. of again mercilessly trampling down the desire of the international community for peace in the Middle East.

Staff members of the Russian embassy here laid wreaths at the Liberation Tower and the cemetery of fallen fighters of the Soviet Army on the occasion of the Day of Defenders of the Motherland.

The permanent representative of China at the UN condemned the U.S. for vetoing again the draft resolution demanding an immediate humanitarian ceasefire in the Gaza Strip of Palestine.

Rodong Sinmun

A meeting took place to mark the 60th founding anniversary of the February 8 Jikdong Youth Coal Mine.

Minju Joson

- Foreign personages of various circles paid congratulatory visits to the DPRK missions in their countries on the occasion of the 82nd birth anniversary of Chairman Kim Jong Il. -0-