N Korea test highlights nuclear proliferation links in S Asia : PM

London, Oct 10 (UNI) Prime Minister Manmohan Singh today told his British counterpart Tony Blair that North Korea's nuclear test highlighted the danger of ''clandestine proliferation'' linkages emanating from India's neighbourhood and affecting its security.

Addressing a joint press conference after a 30-minute one-on-one meeting at 10 Downing Street followed a delegation-level talks, Dr Singh said India has expressed concern over the nuclear test conducted by North Korea which is in violation of its international commitments. India had stated that the six party talks which was initiated to achieve the goal to denuclearisation of the North Korean peninsula is to be revitalised.

Both Dr Singh and Mr Blair expressed concern over the nuclear test and said it had put in jeorpardy the peace, stability and security in Korean peninsula.

Both leaders also agreed that there is no parallel between Indian policy and what is happening in North Korea.

Mr Blair made it clear that North Korea has a very different situation and that country conducted the test in total breach of their commitment to international obligation, whereas a country like India has been very strong on counter proliferation.

''North Korea is going in opposite direction and it is very serious situation. The tragedy of North Korea is not just the nuclear test which is worrying. People there are literally facing oppression and living in poverty and starvation while they spend millions of dollar on nuclear weapons,'' Mr Blair said, terming it a ''tragedy''.

''It is the revitalisation of six party talks, and make N Korea come back in compliance, and fulfilling the international obligations,'' the British Prime Minister said adding he welcomed the strong stand that China has taken. ''This is important that we will work together to ensure how we deal with the situation,'' he said.

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