Statement by Minister Coveney on North Korean Nuclear Weapons Test

Statement by Minister Coveney on North Korean Nuclear Weapons Test

The Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade, Mr. Simon Coveney T.D., has expressed deep concern that North Korea tested a nuclear explosive device on 3 September 2017. Speaking from Brussels, Minister Coveney said:

“This further test of another nuclear explosive device by North Korea represents a real threat to peace and security in the region and beyond. It is a flagrant and provocative violation of the DPRK's international obligations not to produce or test nuclear weapons. I unreservedly condemn such actions.

This latest development highlights the need for immediate entry into force of the Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban Treaty (CTBT). I urge all states who have not already done so to ratify the Treaty without delay so that the global disarmament and non-proliferation architecture can be strengthened and the global norm against testing reinforced.

I call on North Korea to abandon its programmes to develop ballistic missiles, nuclear capabilities and weapons of mass destruction in a manner that is complete, verifiable and irreversible.

Urgent engagement on nuclear disarmament by all stakeholders is now needed. I also call on the North Korean authorities to cease all nuclear testing and re-engage with the Six Party Talks on the denuclearisation of the Korean Peninsula, immediately and without pre-conditions.”

ENDS