June 7, 2007 — According to Yonhap News Agency, government officials have reported that North Korea fired short-range missiles off its west coast today, the latest in a series of missile tests over the past year despite strong international objections and increasing U.N. sanctions.  Congressman Trent Franks responded with the following statement:

“I was fortunate to meet just last month with Japanese Foreign Minster, the Honorable Taro Aso. We spoke candidly about the need to cooperate in building a robust missile defense to protect our two nations, and we shared our strong concerns about the potential danger posed by their rogue neighbor, North Korea.  Last year North Korea fired a barrage of long and short range missiles, and recently fired a short-range surface-to-ship missile off its coast. North Korea’s missiles have ranges that can reach the United States bearing nuclear warheads.  We must continue working with our Japanese allies in order to address their concerns as well as ours. 

“North Korea’s missile test today underscores the urgent need for the United States and its allies to ensure that we are equipped to defend against an attack by any rogue nation armed with ballistic missiles, nuclear or otherwise.  As President Bush and President Putin discuss the implications of a European missile defense site, and as Congress continues to debate the necessity of a third site, I hope today’s test will emphasize our need to pursue a strong and effective missile defense.”