'The increased detection and global cooperation that we have seen will help in the detection and deterrence of future violations,' Rice said. She said the sanctions panel is investigating the seizure of the ship by the UAE.

The six parties involved in the failed talks to stop North Korea's nuclear activities are China, the US, Russia, Japan and North and South Korea.

North Korea sent a letter to the council Sep 3, saying it needed not reply to the UN sanctions panel that sought more information on the ship.

The letter said nuclear activities and firing of missiles were taken to counter the 'high-handed act and threat' by the international community to deprive Pyongyang of its 'rights to peaceful economic construction.'

North Korea said it has also completed a new phase in its uranium enrichment programme and plutonium that has been extracted is being weaponized.