CNN reported yesterday that Pyongyang has informed Beijing, after its first nuclear test on October 9, that it is ready to conduct three additional nuclear tests as part of an overall nuclear experimental program. Quoting a U.S. intelligence official, CNN said, “U.S. spy satellites have detected nuclear test activities at three sites in North Korea.”

A CNN correspondent at the Pentagon said, “As North Korean missile bases have prepared a high state of nuclear test readiness, there is likelihood it will take advantage of the facilities within a few days. But nobody can predict anything.”

CNN stated, “High ranking officials of North Korea have said that Pyongyang is planning several additional nuclear tests.” Another news source, NBC, reported that Pyongyang has informed China that it plans to conduct additional underground nuclear tests. NBC reported that US spy satellites have detected the movement of vehicles and people at the place that the US considers to be the second nuclear test site.

However, US officials said, “It is not clear whether the movement of vehicles and people, taken by the satellites, is for a second test or for finalizing the first nuclear test.” During her visit to Japan, US Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice said, “We do not have a mind for guessing an additional North Korean nuclear test, but it is true that we worry about it.” She did not exclude the possibility of an additional test.

CNN quoted US Assistant Secretary of State Nicholas, “I have heard rumors of North Korea’s additional nuclear test, but I have not seen certain clear symptoms,” adding, “North Korea is an abnormal and unpredictable regime.”

입력시간: 2006. 10.20. 08:37