Canberra
Australia unequivocally condemns today's launch of a long-range rocket by North Korea.
The launch is a provocative and irresponsible act which has allowed North Korea to again test its ballistic missile technology.
North Korea's nuclear and long-range missile programs and its proliferation of sensitive technologies threaten the stability and security of our region.
North Korea's testing of long-range rockets violates United Nations Security Council resolutions and the Security Council's Statement earlier this year, and it defies the will of the international community.
Australia urges the Security Council to meet urgently and respond firmly.
This was another disappointing example of North Korea choosing a path of militarism and isolation.
This is North Korea's second, costly, long-range rocket launch this year. And all the while its people struggle to get the food they need to survive.
We call on the North Korean Government to abide by UN Security Council resolutions, stop its provocations, improve the wellbeing of its people, and engage constructively with the international community.
Australia will be expressing its concerns directly to the North Korean Government.
We will continue to work vigorously with our friends and partners in the region, including with the Republic of Korea, to uphold peace and stability in North Asia.