Minister Flanagan's Statement on Reports of Testing of Nuclear Explosive by North Korea

Statement by Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade Charlie Flanagan TD, on Reports of a Nuclear Weapons Test Having Been Carried Out by North Korea

- Minister expresses grave concern at reports of testing of nuclear explosive device by North Korea

- Minister says reported test represents a real threat to peace and security on the Korean Peninsula

- Minister calls on North Korea to cease all nuclear testing and re-engage in talks

The Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade, Mr. Charlie Flanagan TD, has expressed grave concern about reports that North Korea tested a nuclear explosive device today, Friday 9 September 2016. The Minister stated:

“I am gravely concerned at the latest reports that North Korea has once again tested a nuclear explosive device. This constitutes the second reported test this year, and represents a real threat to peace and security on the Korean Peninsula, and the entire North East Asia region. The reported test is the latest in a series of provocative actions undertaken by North Korea this year, and is a flagrant violation of its international obligations not to produce or test nuclear weapons. It shows a blatant disregard for recent efforts of the international community to encourage North Korea to cease such actions.

“The reported test is also a major challenge to international efforts to advance global nuclear disarmament and non-proliferation, a longstanding goal of Ireland’s foreign policy. Nuclear weapons are never a means to guarantee peace and security; far from it, they pose the greatest threat of all. The regime in Pyongyang must realise that this act is reckless and provocative and will only isolate it further from the international community.

“The reported test draws into sharp focus the urgent need for engagement on nuclear disarmament by all stakeholders. I 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.

“These events further highlight the urgency for the immediate entry into force of the Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban Treaty (CTBT). As 2016 marks the 20th anniversary of the conclusion of negotiations on the Treaty, I call on the eight remaining states whose ratification is required for the Treaty to enter into force to do so without delay.”

ENDS
Press Office
9 September 2016