APTN establish office in North Korea

AP Television News (APTN) has become the first Western news organisation to establish a full-time office in North Korea.
The announcement follows four years of negotiations with the state broadcaster, Korean Radio and Television, and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Under the arrangement, international staff from AP Television News, which is headquartered in Britain, will work with local staff recruited from Korean Radio and Television. The bureau opened this week.
"Once again, The Associated Press opens a window with authoritative and impartial coverage from all parts of the world," said Tom Curley, President and CEO of The Associated Press. APTN is the international video division of The Associated Press.
APTN Executive Director Nigel Baker, in Pyongyang for the opening of the bureau, said: "This is a groundbreaking opportunity. APTN has secured frequent and prolonged access to North Korea over the past four years. The agreement for a full-time bureau now means we'll be the only Western news organisation with regular coverage."
APTN also has four staff members in South Korea and provides content to over 15 broadcasters there. The new bureau in North Korea strengthens APTN's news leadership in the region. (CD/CL)