North Korean leader Kim Jong-un says his reclusive nation plans more “satellite launches” — which the West sees as a cover for ballistic missile tests — calling space exploration a “strategic goal”, s
North Korean leader Kim Jong-un says his reclusive nation plans more “satellite launches” — which the West sees as a cover for ballistic missile tests — calling space exploration a “strategic goal”, state media said on Friday.
“Conquering space is ... A fierce class struggle against the hostile forces seeking to usurp our peace and sovereignty”, Mr Kim was quoted as saying at a Wednesday awards ceremony for those involved in February’s rocket launch.
He also underscored the need to successfully launch “more working satellites”, Pyongyang’s KCNA news agency said. “The advance toward space... Is the DPRK’s (North Korea’s) strategic goal”, he said.
Calling the scientists involved in the February 7 launch “best patriots and admirable heroes”, Mr Kim gave out medals, prizes and wristwatches bearing the names of the two late leaders of the Kim dynasty — Kim Il-Sung and Kim Jong-Il.
North Korea sparked international outrage with the launch of the Kwangmyongsong-4 satellite, which came just a month after its fourth nuclear test.
The launch, which most in the international community viewed as a disguised ballistic missile test, violated multiple UN resolutions banning the nuclear-armed country from the use of ballistic technology.
The United States, along with Asian allies South Korean and Japan, are spearheading efforts at the UN Security Council for a strong resolution that will impose harsh sanctions on Pyongyang.
