calendar>>June 18. 2014 Juche 103
National Day of Persons with Disabilities Marked
Pyongyang, June 18 (KCNA) -- It has been 11 years since the adoption of the law on protection of the disabled (June 18, 2003) in the DPRK.

The law makes it clear that the state is obliged to respect the individualities of persons with disabilities and ensure to them the same socio-political rights and benefits as those for persons without disabilities.

On this occasion, a joint meeting took place at the Pyongyang Schoolchildren's Palace to celebrate the 2014 National Day of Persons with Disabilities.

At the meeting, a joint performance was given by members of the art groups of the disabled and art groups of the palace and diverse sportive events were held by the participants in the meeting.

The performance and events clearly showed the happy life of the disabled under the protection and care of the state and society.

Jon Kum Hyok, a student of Taedong Blind School in South Phyongan Province, told KCNA:

I was learning singing but started piano from 40 days ago at the request of my parents. It is my determination to give pleasure to the respected Marshal Kim Jong Un with my songs and piano performance.

Yun Pyong Hui, piano instructor of Jon, said:

Jon was good in basic musical knowledge and has a good sense. I will teach him to be a good pianist.

Carla Vitantonio, deputy director for unit 7 of EUPS (European Union Program Support) working for people with disabilities in the DPRK, said:

Today we are particularly happy to be here together with European and Korean colleagues to celebrate the National Day of Persons with Disabilities in Korea. This inclusive sportive event today that has been organized by the KFPD together with the government and with our support is an added value for people with and without disability.

Meanwhile, mass rhythmic exercises and amusement games took place in all schools for the disabled, including the Songchon Deaf and Dumb School in Phyongan Province.

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