NORTH KOREA DARES UN, FIRES ‘PROJECTILES AFTER SANCTIONS

March 3, 2016 – North Korea says it has launched six short-range projectiles few hours after the UN passed a resolution, slamming very tough sanctions on the nation.

Defence spokesman for South Korea, Moon Sang Gyun said the projectiles were fired from the eastern coastal town of Wonsan but that it was trying to determine what exactly North Korea fired. He added that the projectiles could be missiles, artillery or rockets.

Last month, North Korea launched a satellite into orbit with a long-range rocket, which the UN believes was nothing but a cover up for a test of banned ballistic missile.

The new sanctions include a ban on all exports including coal, iron, iron ore, gold, titanium ore, vanadium ore and rare earth metals, and banning the supply of all types of aviation fuel, including rocket fuel to North Korea.

The sanctions were adopted due to the country’s ongoing nuclear and ballistic missile-related activities that “threaten international peace and security.”

“Today’s unanimous action by the Security Council has sent a clear message that the DPRK must return to full compliance with its international obligations,” said Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon in a statement issued by his spokesperson.
The UN chief urged North Korea to abide by the resolution and called upon all UN Member States to ensure its implementation.

“This firm response by the Security Council should put an end to the cycle of provocation and lead to the resumption of dialogue in accordance with the unified view of the international community,” he added.

The Secretary-General also reiterated the critical role of international assistance in safeguarding the lives of millions in the country, while renewing his call on the DPRK to do more for the lives of its people.

“Genuine improvement in human rights is a necessary basis for long-term security and stability,” he stressed.
In the resolution, which was sponsored by the United States, the 15-member body condemned “in the strongest terms” the nuclear test conducted by the DPRK on 6 January, noting that it was “in violation and flagrant disregard” of the Council’s prior resolutions. It further condemned the country’s launch of 7 February, which used ballistic missile technology and was a “serious violation.”