Russian MFA Information and Press Department Commentary Regarding the DPRK’s Resumption of Disablement of the Yongbyon Nuclear Facilities

We note with satisfaction that positive dynamics have emerged in solving the Korean Peninsula nuclear problem. The United States and the DPRK continued fulfilling their obligations as part of the second stage of the peninsula's denuclearization in accordance with the "action for action" principle – the United States completed the procedure of removing the DPRK from its list of state sponsors of terrorism, and the DPRK resumed work to disable the nuclear facilities at Yongbyon.

Russia as an active and responsible participant in the talks on the Korean Peninsula nuclear problem strictly adheres to the accords reached within the six-party process. Continuing to pursue this line in the future as well, the Russian side calls on the other states participating in the talks to work consistently on the implementation of the provisions of the Joint Declaration of September 19, 2005 and expresses its readiness to closely cooperate with the partners to achieve the verifiable denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula.

October 14, 2008