Obama calls Aso, Myung-bak to chart joint response to NKorea

Launching a diplomatic initiative following North Korea's nuclear test, US President Barack Obama telephoned leaders of Japan and South Korea, pledging to work with them to obtain a UN resolution with "concrete measures" against Pyongyang.      

Obama called South Korean President Lee Myung-bak and Japanese Prime Minister Taro Aso to discuss with them the current situation in the region following the nuclear tests conducted by North Korea.      

During conversation with both, Obama underscored that the tests are in violation of UN Security Council resolution and the three agreed to work jointly to meet the new challenge to security and peace in the region, the White House said.      

Speaking to Aso, Obama maintained that testing of atomic device warranted a collective response and pledged US' unequivocal commitment to the defense of Japan, as the two agreed to cooperate with regional powers like South Korea, China and Russia to curtail Pyongyang's nuclear activity.      

Obama also spoke to Lee Myung-bak to coordinate reaction to North Korean move, agreeing that it was reckless violation of international law that compels action in response.      

"They agreed to work closely together to seek and support a strong United Nations Security Council resolution with concrete measures to curtail North Korea's nuclear and missile activities," the White House said.Obama assured Lee of the unequivocal commitment of the US to the defense of his country.      

He also expressed his appreciation to President Lee for the decision by the Republic of Korea to join the Proliferation Security Initiative (PSI), the White House said.