Pakistan voices concern over N Korea's missile tests

Pakistan on Thursday expressed grave concern over reports about the latest missile tests conducted by North Korea which are "in violation" of the UN Security Council Resolutions.

North Korea on Thursday announced that it has successfully test-launched a surface-to-surface medium- and long-range strategic ballistic missile Hwasong-10 and top leader Kim Jong Un watched the launch at the site, according to state media KCNA.

"We hope that DPRK will desist from steps that are inimical to regional peace and stability," a Pakistan foreign ministry statement said.

The Foreign Ministry spokesperson said Pakistan has been a consistent supporter of a nuclear weapons free Korean Peninsula, as agreed to by all parties.

"We believe that all countries should comply with their respective international obligations. We oppose any action which is detrimental to peace and stability in the region and militates against the prospects of reaching a peaceful and diplomatic solution to the issue within the framework of the Six Party Talks," the spokesman said in a statement.

The ballistic missile "took off a self-propelled launching ramp and accurately landed in the targeted waters forward 400 km after flying along the planned flight orbit," the KCNA said.

--IANS

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