International community against nuclear weapons
Leaders from over 50 nations and international organizations are arriving in Seoul to attend the Nuclear Security Summit, which kicks-off on Monday, March 26.
World leaders will review achievements made since the Washington summit in 2010. They will also discuss measures to combat the threat of nuclear terrorism, secure nuclear materials and facilities, and prevent the illicit trafficking of nuclear materials.
Earlier North Korea said it would launch a satellite into space using a long-range rocket as part of celebrations marking the 100th anniversary of the April 15 birth of late President Kim Il Sung.
The decision immediately aroused anger worldwide and was condemned by the USA, Russia, South Korea and Japan. The United States hurried to warn North Korea that the launch would jeopardize a recent deal to ship U.S. food aid to the North in exchange for a moratorium on missile and nuclear tests. Besides, the angered countries said that the launch violates a UN resolution prohibiting North Korea from using ballistic missile technology.
North Korea's ally China has also expressed concern over the satellite project, saying it jeopardizes regional peace and security.
Presidents of the USA and Russia, Barack Obama and Dmitry Medvedev are scheduled to meet in Seoul to discuss a number of issues including the situation in Syria and Iran's nuclear program.
In May, Barack Obama will also meet Russian President-elect Vladimir Putin to discuss reduction of their stockpiles of nuclear weapons.
