DPRK notifies agencies of satellite launch

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Source: CCTV.com | 03-12-2009 19:56

The Democratic People's Republic of Korea has notified international agencies of a planned launch of a communication satellite. South Korea, Japan and the US believe the launch will test missile technology, which they claim is in violation of a UN Security Council resolution banning Pyongyang from ballistic missile activity. They have urged the DPRK not to go ahead.

The Democratic People's Republic of Korea has notified international agencies of a planned launch of a communi- cation satellite.

South Korea's Yonhap news agency reports the DPRK is likely to fire a rocket between April 4th and April 8th.

US and South Korean officials suspect the DPRK might test fire a ballistic missile designed to carry a nuclear warhead. They say they will shoot it down if necessary.

But the DPRK says it plans to launch a communication satellite as part of a peaceful space program.

The DPRK's official news agency says the country has provided the International Civil Aviation Organization and other international agencies with information to ensure safe navigation of planes and ships during the launch.

The report does not give a specific date for the launch.

Meanwhile, Russian nuclear envoy, Alexei Borodavkin, has visited Seoul and met with South Korean officials.

He's also scheduled to meet with his South Korean counterpart, Wi Sung-lac.

Russia has expressed concern over tension on the Korean peninsula and urged all nations involved to show restraint.

On Tuesday, Russia criticized US inflammatory talk and threats to punish Pyongyang for the planned rocket launch.

Editor:Yang Jie