July 10, 1999
New Delhi

On 25th June 1999, a North Korean vessel M.V. Kuwolsan docked at Kandla port to discharge a cargo of sugar.

During examination of the cargo on board it was found to contain 148 boxes, declared as Machines and Water Refining equipment. Subsequent examination of these boxes established that the equipment was, in fact, for production of tactical surface-to-surface missiles with a range in excess of 300 kms. It included special materials and equipment, components for guidance system, blue prints, drawings and instruction manuals for production of such missiles.

The investigations in the matter are continuing. In response to our request, the DPRK authorities have agreed to cooperate in facilitating enquiries and completing the investigation.