Many Russian analysts believe that a cautious and gradual liberalization of the DPRK's foreign and economic policies could allow the ruling regime to survive and lead the country along the Chinese and Vietnamese models. Instead, it prefers gradual improvements in North Korea's economy, living standards, and political conditions. The ROK is prepared to develop intensive economic ties with a reforming DPRK, and other foreign investors are likely to follow. The North Korean economy is relatively small, yet has abundant natural resources, a relatively well-developed industrial base, and a labor force willing to work for low wages. Thus, it seems possible that the North could quickly achieve economic progress while maintaining political stability.
Chinese officials are glad that the summit has finally taken place.
However, they are not sure that the summit will lead to a real reduction of tensions on the Korean Peninsula and to full-fledged ties between the North and the South. Beijing thinks that Kim Jong-il is still hesitant to open his country because he fears the potential effects on the regime. Chinese analysts also know that he is very stubborn and considers it below his dignity to follow the Chinese model. Symptomatic of this nationalism is the fact that Pyongyang remains secretive and reluctant to share its plans even with China, its sole ally. Therefore, Chinese analysts believe that the United States will continue to provoke North Korea, trying to push it into a traditional isolationist mood.