North Korea successfully fired a long-range missile early today, defying international warnings as the regime of Kim Jong-un took a big step forward in its quest to develop a nuclear missile.

While the rocket launch will enhance the credentials of young leader Kim, who took power after his father Kim Jong-il's death a year ago, it is also likely to bring fresh sanctions against the country and further complicate relations between North Korea, its neighbours and the West.

Canadian Foreign Affairs Minister John Baird said the missile launch was likely an attempt by North Korea to show control and "flex some muscle," presenting a "huge challenge for regional security."

“It’s just a real step backwards and one that should cause us all real concern," Baird said. "Anyone who had hoped that the new president would change course from his father is going to be very disappointed."
North Korean youths in traditional outfits play instruments in front of the Pyongyang Grand Theatre in Pyongyang, North Korea, to celebrate a rocket launch on Wednesday. North Korean youths in traditional outfits play instruments in front of the Pyongyang Grand Theatre in Pyongyang, North Korea, to celebrate a rocket launch on Wednesday. (Jon Chol Jin/Associated Press)

The United States, South Korea and Japan were also quick to condemn the morning launch, which they see as a test of technology needed to mount a nuclear warhead on a missile that could one day threaten the U.S. Pyongyang says it was merely a peaceful effort to put a satellite into orbit.

[link to www.cbc.ca]

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