MOSCOW. Nov 29 (Interfax) - The fact that a State Duma delegation was visiting North Korea on the day of a ballistic missile test-launch was a mere coincidence, Deputy Chairman of the State Duma Defense Committee Alexander Sherin told Interfax on Wednesday.
"Perhaps, the presence of our deputies kept North Korea safe at that moment; perhaps, they used us without our knowledge," Sherin said.
"It could be a mere coincidence that our parliamentarians paid a visit on that day," he said.
In Sherin's opinion, North Korea will not cease its nuclear program, given the example of Iran, who took such steps only for the United Stated to declare its intention to unilaterally break with the deal nonetheless.
"Without justifying what North Korea has done, I recall the example of Iran, which honored every international agreement and requirement. North Korea would have done nothing of the sort if the United States had not treated Iran, a country which dismantled its nuclear program, in such a manner," Sherin said.
One may expect a settlement of the Korean Peninsula crisis only after the United States adjusts its policy, he said.
"As soon as America calms down, the entire world will calm down, too. Everyone wants to live, develop, build plants and roads, and raise children, and no one is eager to make more missiles and tanks and maintain troops and missile launchers. It is U.S. policy that prompts such countries as North Korea to make those tests," Sherin said.
A delegation including representatives of all State Duma factions is visiting North Korea between November 26 and December 1.