The Secretary-General welcomes the release of two US nationals, Mr. Kenneth Bae and Mr. Matthew Todd Miller, by the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) today. He appreciates the decision of the DPRK to release them following the release last month of Mr. Jeffrey Fowle.

The Secretary-General is relieved that they are safely returning home and commends the work of international partners in helping to secure their release.

The Secretary-General hopes that this positive momentum for improving relations among the concerned parties for peace and security on the Korean Peninsula and beyond will be built on.