Media Release
15 June, 2009
Australia Welcomes UN Security Council Response to North Korea's Nuclear Test
Australia welcomes the United Nations Security Council's unanimous adoption of Resolution 1874 which strongly condemns North Korea's nuclear test on 25 May.
The Resolution contains new measures building on those in Resolution 1718, adopted after North Korea's first nuclear test in 2006. It includes restrictions on financial transactions, an expanded arms embargo and provisions for the inspection of vessels suspected of trade in banned cargo.
The new Resolution sends the clear and united signal from the international community that North Korea's actions are unacceptable.
Australia will work with friends and allies, including members of the Six-Party Talks, to ensure the new measures, as well as the sanctions under Resolution 1718, are fully implemented by the international community.
Australia condemns North Korea's announcement in response to the unanimous UNSC Resolution that it would continue with its development of nuclear weapons, including by weaponising plutonium and enriching uranium.
North Korea must heed the international community and abandon its pursuit of nuclear weapons, which will only lead to its further isolation.
North Korea's future security and prosperity can only be secured through constructive relations with its neighbours and the broader international community.
Australia's non-resident Ambassador to North Korea delivered this message directly to senior North Korean leaders during a visit to Pyongyang last week.
Australia will continue to urge North Korea to abandon its nuclear and missile programs and again calls on North Korea to end its provocative behaviour and return, without preconditions, to the Six-Party Talks.
Media inquiries:
- Mr Smith's office 02 6277 7500
- Departmental Media Liaison 02 6261 1555