Statement by the Spokesperson of EU High Representative Catherine Ashton on the DPRK’s Ballistic Missile launches

Brussels, 28 March 2014 140328/03

The spokesperson of Catherine Ashton, High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy and Vice President of the Commission, issued the following statement today :

" The High Representative is deeply concerned about the destabilising actions undertaken by the DPRK on 26th March 2014, following the rocket launches over the course of the last three weeks. This week's missile firings represent a clear violation of the DPRK’s international obligations as set out in particular under UN Security Council Resolution 1718 and 1874.

The High Representative calls upon the DPRK to comply fully, unconditionally and without delay with its obligations under relevant UN Security Council Resolutions, its IAEA Comprehensive Safeguards Agreement under the NPT, and its commitments towards denuclearisation under the 2005 Joint Statement of the Six Party Talks. She also urges DPRK to refrain from any action that could further increase regional tensions.

The EU is ready to continue working with its international partners, with a view to contributing to the pursuit of lasting peace and stability on the Korean Peninsula."