
Image of DPRK 's nuclear test base released in January.
-Xinhua/Reuters File Photo
The Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) said today that it has
conducted a successful nuclear test, according to the official Korean Central
News Agency (KCNA).
"The test is 100 percent safe," said the KCNA, adding that there was "no
radioactive leak."
The move came about a week after the country announced it would undertake an
unprecedented nuclear test under the condition where safety is firmly
guaranteed.
In a statement issued last Tuesday, the DPRK Foreign Ministry said it "will
never use nuclear weapons first."
The Oct. 3 announcement drew deep concerns of the international community.
The United Nations Security Council on Friday unanimously adopted a
presidential statement, urging the DPRK to return immediately to the six-party
talks.
"The Security Council urges the DPRK to return immediately to the six-party
talks without precondition, and to work :::::: :::::: :::::: :::::: ::::::
:::::: toward the expeditious implementation of the Sept. 19, 2005, Joint
Statement, and in particular to abandon all nuclear weapons and existing nuclear
programs," the statement said.
U.S. Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice said on Tuesday that a nuclear test
by the DPRK would be a "very provocative" act.
Washington on Friday warned that it would be the "most incendiary" event if
the DPRK undertakes a nuclear test.
"It would be destabilizing to the region and could lead to further escalation
of tensions," White House deputy spokeswoman Dana Perino said.
China urged for calm and restraint on the nuclear test issue.
"We... hope that all relevant parties must address their concerns through
dialogues and consultations instead of taking actions that may intensify the
situation," Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Liu Jianchao said in a statement
on Wednesday.
Pyongyang declared in February 2005 it had nuclear weapons.