The statement said:

The DPRK's success in the lift-off of Kwangmyongsong-4 into its orbit is an exciting event to be specially marked.

The successful satellite launch is a great pride of the Korean nation as it is a token of the greatest respect of the Korean people for leader Kim Jong Il and their sincerity.

Remarkable events have taken place in the DPRK one after another as it has developed by itself, not depending on foreign forces.

All the achievements made by the DPRK defying ordeals would be unthinkable without the exploits of President Kim Il Sung and Kim Jong Il.

We are convinced that the DPRK will make more successes in the same spirit and mettle as displayed in succeeding in the satellite launch.

We send firm solidarity to the Korean people, fully supporting the DPRK's satellite launch as an exercise of the legitimate right of a sovereign state.