Statements and Speeches by Ministry Representatives 2006

Nuclear Suppliers Group Consultative Group meeting: Nuclear Test in the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK)

11-13 October 2006, Vienna

New Zealand intervention

Mr Chairman

I wish to take the floor under Rule 50 to add New Zealand’s voice to those who have expressed concern regarding the DPRK’s claim that it has conducted a nuclear test.

New Zealand strongly condemns the DPRK’s actions. The test is an extreme escalation of DPRK’s previous unacceptable behaviour and is inconsistent with behaviour expected of a state seeking security and other guarantees from the international community.

New Zealand absolutely rejects the use of nuclear weapons, and the testing of these weapons. The DPRK’s decision to test a nuclear weapon is completely at odds with the spirit of the nuclear disarmament and non-proliferation regime and also the global moratorium on nuclear testing that is in place, pending the entry into force of the Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban Treaty.

We are gravely concerned that the DPRK has, by this action, shown its flagrant disregard for the concerns of its neighbours, and those of the international community. These actions also show a disregard for regional and international peace and security.

We call on the DPRK to immediately cease any further provocative actions, to return to the six party talks without preconditions, and to work towards the implementation of previous agreements it has entered into. We also call on the DPRK to comply with UN Security Council resolution 1695 and expeditiously implement the 2005 Joint Statement.

New Zealand will be entering into a dialogue with partners in the region on ways to most effectively manage this problem.

We believe that committed dialogue, rather than military brinksmanship, provides the best possibility for achieving a peaceful and comprehensive resolution. We therefore call on the DPRK, along with all other parties, to refrain from any acts that may add to the further deterioration of the situation and to work constructively to solve this problem.

Thank you Mr Chairman

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