UN condemns latest N Korean missile test

Washington, Aug 27 (IANS) The UN Security Council (UNSC) has unanimously condemned the recent missile launch by North Korea and agreed to adopt "significant measures" in addition to existing sanctions against the communist state.

The condemnatory text was approved by the 15 UNSC members, including China, a North Korean ally, EFE news reported.

The council held a closed-door meeting on Friday to second the statement, which dealt with Tuesday's SLBM - launch of a ballistic missile from a North Korean submarine - which later fell into the Sea of Japan.

Without revealing details, the council agreed "to closely monitor the situation and take further significant measures".

In March, the UNSC introduced tough sanctions against Pyongyang for its missile tests, including restricting exports of certain North Korean raw materials, revenue from which was used to fund its nuclear program.

In addition to imposing a complete embargo on light weapons, the UN body also banned sale of aviation and rocket fuel to the North, as well as the transfer of equipment that could be used militarily.

Other than its recent SLBM, Pyongyang also conducted a twin mid-range missile test earlier this month, one of which fell into Japan's exclusive economic zone.

Days before, in July, it had fired several missiles as part of what it called a drill for preventive strikes against South Korean ports and airfields.