After claims it has perfected nuclear weapons and created a stockpile, North Korea is to join efforts for a worldwide ban on testing. (File photo)GENEVA: North Korea plans to join international efforts to implement a total ban on nuclear weapons tests, it told the United Nations disarmament body Tuesday. It is also one of eight countries with nuclear test capacity, including the United States, China and Iran, which have so far failed to either sign or ratify the 1996 Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban Treaty, blocking it from taking effect. 'Historic opportunity'US ambassador Robert Wood meanwhile told the same forum that his country "welcomes the professed commitment by North Korea to end nuclear tests and missile launches and the shut-down of its nuclear test site." "We hope North Korea will seize the moment and take the bold steps necessary to lead North Korea to a peaceful and prosperous future."

Source: Bangkok Post May 15, 2018 16:50 UTC