"The World and Japan" Database (Project Leader: TANAKA Akihiko)
Database of Japanese Politics and International Relations
National Graduate Institute for Policy Studies (GRIPS); Institute for Advanced Studies on Asia (IASA), The University of Tokyo

[Title] Statement by Mr. Taro Aso, Minister for Foreign Affairs, on the Adoption of the United Nations Security Council Resolution Concerning the Nuclear Test Proclaimed by North Korea

[Place]
[Date] October 15, 2006
[Source] Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan
[Notes]
[Full text]

1. Japan welcomes the unanimous adoption of the Resolution 1718 by the United Nations Security Council on October 15 (New York time: October 14) concerning the nuclear test proclaimed by North Korea on October 9, which sends out a resolute message of the international community condemning this act and contains measures to be taken by North Korea and the other Member States of the United Nations.

2. The claim by North Korea that it conducted a nuclear test came in addition to the ballistic missile launches by North Korea in July and in spite of the Statement by the President of the United Nations Security Council strongly urging North Korea to refrain from conducting such a test. This act, which poses a grave threat to the peace and security of not only Japan but also East Asia and the international community, is totally unacceptable.

3. Under such circumstances, Japan, which holds the presidency of the Security Council, has been making efforts to demonstrate the collective will of the members of the Council, working closely with other countries concerned. Japan is therefore pleased to see the swift adoption of the resolution with tough measures. North Korea must take very seriously the strong concerns of the international community that lies in the background of this resolution, and take concrete measures to resolve the issue.

4. Upon the adoption of the present resolution, Japan strongly urges North Korea to sincerely implement this resolution. For its part, Japan intends to make its utmost efforts for the steady implementation of this resolution, in cooperation with other countries.

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