Brussels, 12/04/2013 (Agence Europe) - Condemning in the strongest terms the DPRK's (Democratic People's Republic of Korea) continued development of nuclear arms and its ballistic missile programmes, the G8 foreign affairs ministers (Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Russia, the United Kingdom, the United States, plus the EU) stated on 11 April that they intended “to strengthen the current sanctions regime and take further significant measures in the event of a further launch or nuclear test by the DPRK”. They also condemned North Korea's aggressive rhetoric, expressed their concern at North Korea's intention to re-open its Yongbyon nuclear plant, and urged North Korea to commit in the credible and authentic multilateral negotiations on denuclearisation.
The ministers also expressed their deep concern at the growing human tragedy in Syria. They said that the humanitarian situation is deplorable and continues to deteriorate, and they called for greater humanitarian aid. They reaffirmed their commitment to support a political transition led by Syria, and the work of UN Special Representative Lakhdar Brahimi. The ministers called on all parties to respect international humanitarian law and human rights, and they condemned the continued use of heavy arms against residential areas. Representatives from France, the USA, the UK and the EEAS (European External Action Service) have met members of the Syrian coalition.
The G8 foreign ministers also underlined the urgent need for progress in the Middle East Peace Process.
In addition, the ministers adopted the declaration on the prevention of sexual violence in conflict. Rape and other forms of serious sexual violence in armed conflicts constitute war crimes and also constitute serious infringements to the Geneva Conventions, they said. (CG/transl.fl)