Tokyo: Japan said Monday that it is preparing for North Korea to launch what Pyongyang has described as a satellite but Tokyo believes is a ballistic missile in the coming weeks.
A coast guard spokesman told AFP that Pyongyang has informed Japan's coast guard that a rocket will be launched between May 31 and June 11 and will land in waters near the Yellow Sea, East China Sea, and east of Luzon Island in the Philippines.
Fumio Kishida, the prime minister's office said in a tweet, issued instructions "on North Korea's notification about the launch of a ballistic missile that it describes as a satellite."
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He has directed officials to gather intelligence, remain vigilant, and work closely with allies such as the United States and South Korea.
In addition, Japan's defence ministry has directed the Air Self-Defense Force to destroy any ballistic missile confirmed to be on course for the country's territory.
According to the ministry, the troops would be authorised to use Standard Missile SM-3 and Patriot Missile PAC-3 to shoot down a projectile in mid-air.
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"Even if it's described as a satellite, a launch using ballistic missile technology would be a violation of United Nations Security Council resolutions and a serious problem that threatens the safety of people," Kishida told reporters. Pyongyang's missile launches have increased in recent months, with some triggering emergency warning systems in parts of Japan.
Meanwhile, Seoul and Tokyo have been working to repair long-strained ties, including greater cooperation on North Korea's military threats.
When asked about possible talks with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, Kishida reiterated on Monday that Tokyo is open to talks, adding that he is interested in "making concrete progress."
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Meanwhile, North Korean state media published a statement from its vice-minister of foreign affairs that appeared to support a conciliatory approach to relations with Japan — an unusual stance from Pyongyang.
There is no reason for the DPRK and Japan not to meet if Japan avoids "being shackled by the past and seeks a way out for improving relations," according to Pak Sang Gil's statement.