EU condemns North Korea; concerned about Pyongyang and Moscow arms transfers; stresses solidarity with two Asian allies

On November 23, the European Union (EU) strongly condemned the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK)'s launch of a military satellite using ballistic missile technology on November 21.

Đại diện cấp cao của EU về chính sách đối ngoại và an ninh Josep Borrell. (Nguồn: Daily News Egypt)

EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Josep Borrell. (Source: Daily News Egypt)

The EU's High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Josep Borrell said the EU stated this and expressed deep concern about the growing military cooperation between Moscow and Pyongyang.

In a statement, Mr. Borrell stressed that “the EU strongly condemns the launch of a military satellite by the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea using ballistic missile technology on 21 November,” saying that this “represents a clear threat to international peace and security and constitutes a flagrant violation of the United Nations Security Council resolutions prohibiting such launches.” He demanded that Pyongyang cease “all illegal and dangerous actions that escalate military tensions in the region.”

The statement said: “The EU reiterates its deep concern about the increased military cooperation between Russia and the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea, which could be in violation of UN Security Council resolutions.” In addition, Mr. Borrell expressed concern about the information about the transfer of weapons to Russia, which could be used in a special military operation in Ukraine.

The EU is also deeply concerned about any behaviour in outer space that could be, or be perceived as, threatening and lead to uncontrolled escalation. According to the recently adopted EU Space Strategy for Security and Defence, the EU will use all available instruments to prevent, deter and, where necessary, respond appropriately to threats in space.

At the same time, on behalf of the EU, Mr. Borrell stressed “full solidarity with South Korea and Japan”.

Accordingly, the EU stands ready to work with all relevant partners to promote a meaningful diplomatic process aimed at building lasting peace and security through complete, verifiable and irreversible denuclearization on the Korean Peninsula.

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