The statement pointed out that the recent provocation was a blatant challenge to the peace of not only Korea but also Asia and the rest of the world and an action contrary to the historic June 15 North-South Joint Declaration and the October 4 declaration.

Calling upon the south Korean people to turn out in the struggle against the war moves of the south Korean forces and the U.S. imperialists against the DPRK, it demanded that the U.S. forces withdraw from south Korea.

The statement extended full support and solidarity to all the measures and stand taken by the DPRK and the Korean people's struggle.

The south Korean military authorities should immediately stop such provocative deeds and respect all the agreements reached with the DPRK, it urged.