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TEXT-North Korea says preparing satellite launch
24 Feb 2009 03:31:44 GMT
 Source: Reuters
SEOUL, Feb 24 (Reuters) - North Korea said on Tuesday it is preparing to launch a satellite on one of its rockets, which analysts have said could actually be a test-launch of its longest-range missile.

Following is a text of North Korea's statement from the English version of its official KCNA news agency:

A spokesman for the Korean Committee of Space Technology issued the following statement on Feb. 24:

"Outer space is an asset common to mankind and its use for peaceful purposes has become a global trend.

"The DPRK (North Korea) has steadily pushed ahead with researches and development for putting satellites into orbit by its own efforts and technology since the 1980s, pursuant to its government's policy for the development of space and its peaceful use.

"In this course, scientists and technicians of the DPRK registered such great success as putting its first experimental satellite Kwangmyongsong-1 (called the Taepodong-1 missile outside of North Korea) into orbit at one try in August 1998.

"Over the past decade since then a dynamic struggle has been waged to put the nation's space science and technology on a higher level, bringing about signal progress in the field of satellite launch.

"The DPRK envisages launching practical satellites for communications, prospecting of natural resources and weather forecast, etc. essential for the economic development of the country in a few years to come and putting their operation on a normal footing at the first phase of the state long-term plan for space development.

"The preparations for launching experimental communications satellite Kwangmyongsong-2 (called the Taepodong-2 missile outside of North Korea) by means of delivery rocket Unha-2 are now making brisk headway at Tonghae Satellite Launching Ground in Hwadae County, North Hamgyong Province.

"When this satellite launch proves successful, the nation's space science and technology will make another giant stride forward in building an economic power."

(Editing by Dean Yates)


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