This is "an extremely serious matter, which I unreservedly condemn," European Union (EU) commissioner for external relations, Benita Ferrero-Waldner, told the plenary session of the European Parliament.

"Not only does it threaten regional stability in Northeast Asia,it also constitutes the latest in a series of challenges by Pyongyang to the international nuclear non-proliferation regime."

This action increases the DPRK's international isolation and itis difficult to see how it can serve the interest of the country's long-suffering population, said the commissioner.

She said the DPRK's motives are very opaque, but added it does not seem unreasonable to regard this as "a deliberate escalation and provocation" by the DPRK, possibly to test the ability of the international community to remain united.

She expressed satisfaction that the international community has been "swift, resolute and united" in condemning these actions.

The commissioner particularly welcomed "the very forceful and clear-cut position" of China.

She said next week's EU foreign ministers' meeting will be an opportunity to discuss the EU's response.

She said the international community will have to take appropriate actions toward the DPRK. "Someone will have to talk to this regime to bring it out of its paranoiac and aggressive posture."

She said it is still too early to say what action the EU should take. But she underlined the importance of the United Nations. "Asa staunch advocate of multilateralism, the European Union must pay particular attention to what is decided at the United Nations."

She expected the EU member states sitting on the UN Security Council to take due account of EU views as they participate in the important discussions in New York.

Ferrero-Waldner believed that it is "absolutely necessary" for the EU to continue with its humanitarian aid for DPRK people.

The EU has been an important donor to the DPRK, delivering some345 million euros (433 million U.S. dollars) in assistance since 1995.