The Group of Seven(G7) leaders have condemned the launch of ballistic missiles at an unprecedented frequency by North Korea as a violation of UN Security Council resolutions.
In a joint statement issued during the G7 Summit in Hiroshima, Japan on Saturday, the leaders of the world’s most powerful democracies vowed to sternly respond to further provocations by the North.
The statement called on the regime to refrain from nuclear tests or missile launches, warning that reckless action will be met by a swift, united and resolute global response.
They expressed concern that Pyongyang prioritizes the development of weapons of mass destruction over the welfare of its people and urged the regime to respond to proposals of dialogue from South Korea, the U.S. and Japan.
They urged the North to respect human rights, allow access by global human rights organizations and promptly resolve the issue of Japanese abductees.
The G7 leaders went on to denounce Russia's invasion of Ukraine in the strongest terms and pledged unwavering support for Kyiv including diplomatic, financial, humanitarian and military assistance.
The statement also addressed China, conveying the group’s readiness to seek constructive, stable relations but warning that any attempt to forcibly change the status quo will not be tolerated, urging Beijing to peacefully resolve the issue in the Taiwan Strait.