A senior North Korean official says the execution of leader Kim Jong-un's once-powerful uncle won't lead to changes in economic policies and the nation will push ahead with plans for new economic zones to attract foreign investment.

Yun Yong-sok, a senior official in the State Economic Development Committee, said in an interview with The Associated Press in Pyongyang on Sunday that Friday's execution of Jang Song-thaek shouldn't be taken as a sign that the North will change economic course or efforts to lure foreign investment.

Jang was considered North Korea's second most powerful man and a key architect of the country's economic policies. His purge and execution has raised questions about whether North Korea will be able to continue policies aimed at raising its standard of living. (AP)