NAMIBIA CONDEMNS NORTH KOREAN NUCLEAR TESTS

UNCLAS WINDHOEK 000191 STATE ALSO FOR EAP E.O. 12958: N/A TAGS: KNNP MNUC PARM TRGY ENRG EMIN ETTC IR WA SUBJECT: NAMIBIA CONDEMNS NORTH KOREAN NUCLEAR TESTS REF: WINDHOEK 159 ¶1. On May 28, the Namibian Ministry of Foreign Affairs released a press statement in connection with the reported nuclear tests conducted by the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK). Begin text. ¶2. At the outset it is worth mentioning that the Republic of Namibia is a State Party to the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT),the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and to the Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban Treaty. Furthermore, Namibia has signed the African Nuclear Free Zone (Pelindaba Treaty). It is therefore a clear indication of Namibia's commitment to the international principles and obligations under these treaties. ¶3. With regard to the reported nuclear testing by the Democratic People's Republic of Korea, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs would like to state that Namibia has been consistent in condemning not only the use or testing of nuclear weapons, but also the production, stockpiling, development and transfer of such weapons. We call on those countries that are not yet signatories to the above-mentioned treaties to do so without further delay. We also call for a total nuclear disarmament without any discrimination. This would guarantee the safety and security of our planet from any devastating effects from nuclear weapons. ¶4. In this regard, Namibia supports the use of nuclear materials, science and technology for various peaceful purposes, especially in the context of social and economic development. End text. ¶5. Comment: The press statement is an unusual public stand by the Government of Namibia, and Post will convey its appreciation for this gesture. This statement reemphasizes the message conveyed to Ambassador by Prime Minister Nahas Angula in reftel that Namibia is indeed committed to abiding by international agreements regarding nuclear materials. MATHIEU