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(Provisional Translation)

Comment by Prime Minister Junichiro Koizumi Concerning North Korea's withdrawal from the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty

January 10, 2003

It is deeply regrettable that North Korea has declared its withdrawal from the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty. We are gravely concerned. Japan strongly urges North Korea to withdraw this decision immediately. To this end, we will work closely with the United States and the Republic of Korea, and co-operate with other concerned countries and the IAEA. At the meeting with President Putin, I intend to discuss, among other issues, this matter thoroughly with the President.