North Korea to sign ASEAN's non-aggression treaty

TopNews.in
July 14th, 2008

Singapore - The Association of South-East Asian Nations welcomed on Monday North Korea's decision to sign ASEAN's non-aggression treaty promoting the peaceful settlement of disputes.

The signing of the Treaty of Amity and Cooperation (TAC) in South-East Asia will take place July 24 after the 15th ASEAN Regional Forum, said a statement from Singapore's Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

With Singapore the current chairman of the 10-member regional grouping, the statement said, "ASEAN warmly welcomes the DPRK's decision."

"Accession to the TAC will strengthen relations between ASEAN and the DPRK, and also help promote peace, security and cooperation in the region," the ministry said.

ASEAN includes Singapore, Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, the Philippines, Brunei, Vietnam, Laos, Cambodia and Myanmar.

Twenty-seven countries are set to gather at the forum to discuss security issues. (dpa)