Japan, S. Korea Agree to Cooperate over N. Korea Missile Launch

Seoul, Feb. 3 (Jiji Press)--South Korean Unification Minister Hong Yong-pyo and Japanese Ambassador to South Korea Koro Bessho agreed Wednesday that their countries will work together closely to stop North Korea from launching a long-range ballistic missile. The move came after the reclusive country notified international organizations of plans to launch what it claims to be a satellite between Monday and Feb. 25. Bessho said after the meeting with Hong that the Japanese and South Korean sides agreed to stay in close contact with each other on the current situation and future response measures. A spokesman at the Unification Ministry said that the North Korean plan is a grave challenge to the international community, demanding Pyongyang drop it. END