Pakistan expresses concerns over DPRK's missile tests

Pakistan on Thursday expressed grave concern over reports regarding the latest missile tests conducted by the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) which are "in violation" of UN Security Council Resolutions.

The DPRK on Thursday announced that it has successfully test-launched a surface-to-surface medium- and long-range strategic ballistic missile Hwasong-10 and the top leader Kim Jong Un watched the launch on the site, according to state media KCNA.

"We hope that DPRK will desist from steps that are inimical to regional peace and stability," the Pakistani Foreign Ministry said.

The Foreign Ministry spokesperson said Pakistan has been a consistent supporter of a nuclear weapons free Korean Peninsula, as agreed by all parties.

"We believe that all countries should comply with their respective international obligations. We oppose any action which is detrimental to peace and stability in the region and militates against the prospects of reaching a peaceful and diplomatic solution to the issue within the framework of the Six Party Talks," he said in a statement.

The ballistic missile "took off a self-propelled launching ramp and accurately landed in the targeted waters forward 400 km after flying to the maximum height of 1413.6 km along the planned flight orbit," the KCNA said. Endit