PYONGYANG gave further expression to the new spirit of detente with Washington today, cancelling its annual anti-US imperialism rally to mark the anniversary of the Korean War.

The rally usually launches a month of Korean War-focused events designed to strengthen national unity, culminating on July 27 with a national holiday to celebrate “victory in the fatherland liberation war.”

North Korea has noticeably toned down its anti-Washington rhetoric over recent months to create a more conciliatory atmosphere for the June 12 summit that took place between US President Donald Trump and his North Korean counterpart Kim Jong Un in Singapore.