N.Korea calls military drill a threat to peace

July 25, 2010
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A North Korean official has lodged a protest about the US-South Korean joint military drill, calling it a threat to regional peace and security.

North Korean Foreign Ministry official Ri Dong Il, who visited Hanoi to attend the ASEAN Regional Forum, was speaking to reporters on Sunday.

Ri described the joint naval exercise in the Sea of Japan as a challenge and provocation to North Korea's sovereignty and security as well as the wish for peace and stability in the region.

The official indicated the possibility of another nuclear test by the North, saying the nation will step up its nuclear deterrent in response to US threats and hostile policy.

As for the six-party talks on North Korea's nuclear program, Ri stressed the need for early resumption of the talks to resolve the issue.

The chair's statement in the ASEAN Regional Forum urged that the talks resume.

2010/07/25 16:16(JST)
(JST: UTC+9hrs.)