North Korea has ‘successfully’ tested a new type of submarine-launched ballistic missile (SLBM). However, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un did not oversee the launch. Yonhap news agency reported that this is North Korea’s 8th missile test this year.
“The new SLBM will contribute greatly to our country’s defense technology advancement and the Navy’s underwater operational capabilities,” the North’s official Korean Central News Agency said. South Korea’s military said on Tuesday that the North tested a short-range missile called an SLBM from the area around Sinpo and its main submarine shipyard.
Significantly, America is ready for talks with North Korea anytime and anywhere. This is what White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki said, underscoring the urgent need for North Korea’s missile tests to engage with a reclusive state. “These launches also underscore the urgent need for dialogue and diplomacy. Our proposal is to meet anytime, anywhere without any preconditions,” the White House press secretary said in a daily press briefing. “We urge the DPRK to refrain from further provocation and engage in sustained and substantive dialogue,” he said, referring to North Korea’s official name, the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea.
The State Department earlier condemned North Korea’s latest missile test, calling it a “violation of several UN Security Council resolutions”. North Korea remains unresponsive to US efforts. It has also stayed away from talks with the US since the beginning of 2019. Saki reaffirmed America’s commitment to working with its allies, reiterating America’s commitment to the defense of South Korea and Japan. “We stand ready to engage in diplomacy with North Korea and, of course, to work closely with our allies and partners to take this forward,” the White House press secretary said.