BEIJING: China said Friday it opposes “blindly imposing sanctions” on North Korea, after Beijing abstained during a UN Security Council vote in which Russia blocked the renewal of a panel of UN experts monitoring sanctions-busting activity by Pyongyang.
Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Lin Jian reiterated Beijing’s commitment to a political solution, emphasizing that sanctions alone cannot resolve the complex issues at hand. “The current situation in the Peninsula remains tense, and blindly imposing sanctions cannot solve the issue,” stated Lin Jian when questioned about China’s abstention during the vote.
Highlighting the need for constructive efforts from all relevant parties, Lin Jian expressed hope for the UN Security Council to pursue avenues towards a political resolution. He cautioned against open confrontations at the Security Council, citing potential harmful effects on its authority.
Sanctions on North Korea
Moscow’s recent veto does not immediately lift sanctions on North Korea, but it does mark the end of the panel responsible for monitoring their implementation. This move raises concerns about the oversight of alleged violations, with the panel’s mandate set to expire at the end of April.
North Korea has been subject to increasing sanctions since 2006 in response to its nuclear program. Despite efforts by Russia and China to advocate for the easing of sanctions in recent years, the Security Council has maintained its stance. China, as North Korea’s principal economic supporter and longstanding ally, has continued to play a significant role in regional dynamics.
In a bid to strengthen ties, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un announced earlier this year that 2024 would be designated as the “year of DPRK-China friendship,” underscoring the importance of the relationship between the two nations amidst geopolitical uncertainties.
