July 5, 2009
No. 189
The Honourable Lawrence Cannon, Minister of Foreign Affairs, today issued the following statement concerning North Korea’s July 4 ballistic missile launches:
“Canada condemns North Korea’s latest ballistic missile launches, and remains seriously concerned over the country’s increasingly aggressive actions.
“This series of missile launches is a clear contravention of UN Security Council Resolutions 1718 and 1874 which, among other legally binding provisions, specifically prohibit North Korea from conducting such launches. North Korea’s continued provocative actions represent a serious threat to peace and security, both regionally and globally. This conduct only serves to further isolate it from the international community.
“Canada urges North Korea to immediately halt all activities related to its nuclear and ballistic missile programs, and to resume constructive engagement with the international community through participation in the Six-Party Talks.
“Canada will continue to work with its allies to address the rising tensions on the Korean Peninsula. We have consistently supported the Six-Party Talks, and will continue to support efforts to bring peace and stability to the region.”
North Korea’s latest series of ballistic missile launches is one of a number of provocative actions the country has carried out since April. These have included a long-range rocket launch on April 5 and a nuclear test on May 25.
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For further information, media representatives may contact:
Natalie Sarafian
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Foreign Affairs
613-995-1851
Foreign Affairs Media Relations Office
Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada
613-995-1874
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