Strong defense promised

The Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) warned on Friday that it will be "merciless" defending itself in disputed waters where a bloody naval clash with rival Republic of Korea (ROK) took place this week, further raising tensions ahead of a visit to Seoul by US President Barack Obama. Meanwhile, talks with DPRK officials have been intense, frank and cordial, French President Nicolas Sarkozy's special envoy said Friday on the last day of his five-day visit to Pyongyang.