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MEDIA RELEASE MINISTER FOR FOREIGN AFFAIRS ALEXANDER DOWNER

AA02 028 23 May 2002

Further Australian Support for Reducing Nuclear Proliferation Risks on the Korean Peninsula

I am pleased to announce that Australia will contribute a further $2 million to the Korean Peninsula Energy Development Organization (KEDO) this financial year.

The Australian Government is an active supporter of international nuclear non-proliferation efforts. We value highly the important contribution KEDO makes to such efforts on the Korean Peninsula, and to maintaining the stability of North Asia generally. Australia has a strong interest in the security of North Asia and in the reduction of tensions there. Australia is the largest non-Executive Board financial contributor to KEDO, the latest contribution bringing our total support to date to $21.9 million.

KEDO is an international consortium led by the United States, the Republic of Korea and Japan. KEDO was established under the 1994 Agreed Framework between the United States and the DPRK under which North Korea agreed to freeze its existing nuclear program under the supervision of the International Atomic Energy Agency. In return, North Korea is receiving assistance with meeting its energy needs. KEDO is constructing two light-water nuclear reactors in North Korea. Until these reactors come on line, KEDO is providing 500,000 tonnes of heavy fuel oil annually to be used by North Korea for electricity generation and heating.

Australian contributions to KEDO are used to provide heavy fuel oil and are funded through the Australian Government's aid program.

Australia remains committed to helping encourage a positive security situation on the Korean Peninsula. Australia's dialogue with the DPRK has played an important part in regional and international efforts encouraging North Korea to end its isolation and engage positively with the international community.

Media enquires: Chris Kenny 0419 206 890



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