We strongly condemn the launch of a long range rocket by North Korea in violation of this country’s international obligations.

As with the fourth nuclear test by North Korea on 6th of January, this launch constitutes once again a total disregard to regional and international security and stability.

We are deeply concerned by the possible negative implications of this irresponsible step taken by North Korea despite all international warnings. We urge North Korea to fully comply with its obligations under the relevant UN Security Council Resolutions without delay.

Turkey also attaches importance to the denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula and encourages the immediate resumption of the Six-Party Talks to this effect.