Diplomatic Relations With North Korea Laurie Brereton - Shadow Minister for Foreign Affairs

Media Statement - 8 May 2000

The Shadow Minister for Foreign Affairs, Laurie Brereton, today welcomed the agreement between Australia and the Democratic People's Republic of Korea to resume diplomatic relations on a non-resident basis.

"This is a welcome development which opens opportunities for greater dialogue between Australia and North Korea."

"Australia should use the opportunity provided by the resumption of diplomatic relations to develop a better understanding of North Korea's humanitarian needs and to pursue issues relating to North Korea's nuclear and ballistic missile programs."

"While the prospective meeting between South Korean President Kim Dae-jung and North Korean leader Kim Jong-il has the potential to open a new process of reconciliation on the Korean Peninsula, North Korean's weapons of mass destruction programs remain matters of very serious concern."

"Early action by North Korea to comply fully with International Atomic Energy Agency requirements and suspend completely its missile development program would do much to build confidence and enhance security."

Authorised by Geoff Walsh, 19 National Circuit, Barton ACT 2600.

