US: Ready to Work With North Korea, Even After Missile Test
Despite North Korea's announcement of long-range missile tests, the White House declares that the US position toward North Korea has not changed and that it will remain open to dialogue.
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A new type of long-range cruise missile was tested in North Korea on September 12 and 13, 2021 (AFP).
The White House spokeswoman announced yesterday, Monday, that the US will remain ready to work with North Korea, despite the latter's announcement of a long-range cruise missile test.
Karine Jean-Pierre, White House First Deputy Press Secretary, stated that her country's position has not changed towards North Korea.
The US military said it “monitors” the situation after North Korea claimed it had tested a new type of long-range cruise missile. The Pentagon argued that the test proves that Pyongyang poses a threat to its allies in the region.
— Gideon Chrisostomo (@GideonChrisost1) September 13, 2021
North Korea’s state media reported on Monday… pic.twitter.com/bh1VVirAff
North Korea's successful launch of a new long-range cruise missile earlier this weekend raised US concern about the "threats" posed by these tests.
The Pentagon said that Pyongyang is continuing to develop its nuclear program, warning of the "threats" to its neighbors and the international community.
Analysts considered that the new missile tests represent "technological progress" for North Korea. The Security Council adopted several resolutions prohibiting it from proceeding with its nuclear weapons and ballistic missile programs.
The North Korean Central News Agency announced that North Korea has conducted successful long-range missile tests, and considered that the development of missiles is of strategic importance to possessing another effective deterrent to ensure the security of the state.
North Korea tests this morning its first strategic cruise missile with a possible nuclear capability pic.twitter.com/QUrRvfOukw
— Guy Elster (@guyelster) September 13, 2021
It is noteworthy that the UN Security Council adopted several resolutions prohibiting North Korea from continuing its nuclear weapons and ballistic missile programs. Despite being subjected to many international sanctions, the country has rapidly developed its military capabilities in recent years under the leadership of Kim Jong Un.