INDIA JOINS INTERNATIONAL COMMUNITY IN EXPRESSING

UNCLAS NEW DELHI 001060 SIPDIS E.O. 12958: N/A TAGS: PREL PGOV MNUC KN IN SUBJECT: INDIA JOINS INTERNATIONAL COMMUNITY IN EXPRESSING CONCERN OVER "UNFORTUNATE" DPRK NUCLEAR TEST ¶1. In response to North Korea's nuclear test, on May 25 India's External Affairs Ministry issued the following statement: "We have seen reports that DPRK has conducted a nuclear test on 25 May 2009. For the DPRK to conduct such a test in violation of its international commitments would be unfortunate. Like others in the international community we are concerned at the adverse effect on peace and security in that region of such tests. We continue to monitor the situation." Additionally, in response to a question from the media, Defense Minister A. K. Antony called the test "a development of serious concern," noting India's overall opposition to nuclear proliferation. ¶2. Comment. Despite the official statement's disappointingly reserved wording -- only going as far as "would be unfortunate" and "concerned" -- Indian media has portrayed the GOI's reaction as a "tough stand," with The Times of India (TOI) crediting new Foreign Minister S. M. Krishna as "react(ing) strongly" to the event. TOI speculated that India's stance on the issue was a signal that the new Indian government plans to be more upfront on non-proliferation issues, "particularly as these are expected to be uppermost in the Obama administration." BURLEIGH