Geneva, Feb 20 (IANS): The nuclear test Feb 12 was a "self-defence" measure in reaction to America's ever increasing threat, a North Korean diplomat said here.

Jon Yong Ryong, first secretary of North Koreas' mission in Geneva, told a public plenary of the Conference on Disarmament Tuesday that it was a primary counteraction measure for self-defence and dignity of the nation, in which it had "exercised maximum self-restraint", reported Xinhua.

In response to the statements by the US, Jon said that if the US took a hostile approach towards North Korea, it would render the situation complicated and this would only lead North Korea to take successively stronger steps.

North Korea also threatened South Korea with "final destruction" at the meeting, according to media reports.

"As the saying goes, a new-born puppy knows no fear of a tiger. South Korea's erratic behaviour would only herald its final destruction," Jon was quoted as saying.

The US said that there was nothing defensive in the carrying-out of nuclear tests in violation of international obligations and UN resolutions which demanded that North Korea did not carry out additional tests.