WORLD> Asia-Pacific
DPRK: Attempt to take satellite issue before UN contemptible
(Xinhua)
Updated: 2009-03-29 20:14

PYONGYANG -- The attempt of the United States, Japan, and South Korea to bring the planned satellite launch of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) before the United Nations was a "contemptible conspiracy" and "ridiculous farce," said a commentary carried by the official Rodong Sinmun daily on Sunday.

Launching a satellite for peaceful purpose was the DPRK's legitimate right, said the commentary, adding that the launch will contribute to the prosperity of the country as well as the progress of human beings.

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There are countries having fired several thousand satellites into the orbit, while none of them was brought before the UN, said the commentary.

If the DPRK's satellite launch were submitted to the UN, all other countries which have launched satellites should be taken to the world body as well, it said.

If the issue were submitted to the UN, it would totally ruin the six-party talks, it added.

The DPRK has declared that it will test-fire a communication satellite some time from April 4 to 8. The US, Japan, and South Korea intended to bring the launch before the UN Security Council, alleging it a cover for a ballistic missile test-firing and in violation with the Resolution 1718.