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North Korea¡¯s test-launch of several types of missile Wednesday was an export blitz, some experts say. Missile exports are one of Pyongyang¡¯s few sources of hard currency since the heavily militarized nation has precious few other export industries. North Korea has been exporting Scud missiles to the Middle East and Africa for up to US$4 million a pop.
There is speculation that Iranian officials, who have been in the North since early this month according to press reports, were observing the launches on the spot to see whether they want to buy. According to an unconfirmed report, a special train headed for the northeastern province where the launch pad of the long-range Taepodong-2 missile was located, which could have been carrying the Iranians as well as North Korean brass.
The launch also comes ahead of a visit from Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez. No friend of the U.S., Chavez is to visit North Korea in the second half of the year. He will find himself on the same page as North Korean leader Kim Jong-il in his loathing of Uncle Sam and may strike a barter deal of missiles for oil, some experts say. Venezuelan Information Minister Willian Lara on Wednesday offered veiled support for the Stalinist country, saying all mankind is entitled to the right to develop technology, and there can be no exception to that rule.
(englishnews@chosun.com )
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