North Korea on Monday dismissed the G7’s call to abandon its nuclear program, instead vowing to “steadily update and strengthen” its nuclear capabilities.

In a statement carried by state-run Korean Central News Agency (KCNA), North Korea’s Foreign Ministry declared that its nuclear-armed forces would exist forever, describing them as “a powerful means of justice” essential to defending the nation’s sovereignty, territorial integrity, and fundamental interests.

The ministry spokesperson further claimed that North Korea’s nuclear weapons prevent war on the Korean Peninsula and in Northeast Asia while ensuring global strategic stability.

The statement came in response to last week’s G7 foreign ministers’ summit in Quebec, Canada, where leaders—including U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio—urged Pyongyang to comply with United Nations Security Council resolutions and dismantle its nuclear and ballistic missile programs.

In its rejection, North Korea reiterated that its nuclear status is permanently enshrined in law, asserting that “those laws will not change according to the recognition of anyone.”

The statement follows reports earlier this month from North Korean state media confirming the country is actively developing a nuclear-powered submarine, further signaling Pyongyang’s commitment to expanding its military capabilities despite international pressure.