All sides must comply with UN resolutions

China’s commerce ministry announced on Thursday that China will close joint ventures (JVs) or cooperative and foreign entities established by North Korean organizations or individuals in China within 120 days of the adoption of Resolution 2375 by the UN Security Council.

Overseas Chinese JVs and entities cooperating with North Korean entities and individuals will also be closed in line with the resolution, the ministry announced in a statement.

The move is regarded as the toughest sanction ever adopted by China. While a majority of observers see China’s latest move in a positive light, some critics are surprised at China’s move or believe that China has not done enough.

China has adopted more severe measures against North Korea in line with UN Security Council Resolution 2375, the harshest ever against North Korea.

UN resolutions should be the only gauge in terms of sanctions against North Korea. We should oppose the relaxing or tightening of sanctions. The statement by the Ministry of Commerce strictly honors the UN resolution and correctly reflects public opinion in China.

North Korea’s six nuclear tests threaten northeastern China, outraging Chinese society. The Chinese government supports tighter UN sanctions against North Korea.

But Beijing should only implement the UN Security Council resolutions and should not engage in unilateral sanctions like the US, South Korea and Japan. China should not join in any conspiracy to “totally destroy” North Korea and should avoid worsening relations with the North.

Pyongyang is acting against the entire international community by possessing nuclear weapons. If Pyongyang insists on pursuing its nuclear ambitions, the international community’s resolve will be undaunted.

There appear to be two trains of thought in the international community regarding denuclearization of the peninsula: Crush North Korea or talk to North Korea. China and Russia hold the latter view. Pyongyang should value this sincerity and the US, South Korea and Japan should respect it.

With the support of China and Russia, some humanitarian supplies and materials have been exempted from sanctions. It is hoped that the good will of China and Russia to North Korea and its people will earn a more rational response from Pyongyang.

While undoubtedly pressuring North Korea, the UN Security Council acts as a buffer to prevent the US taking more radical measures against Pyongyang. Both the US and North Korea should respect the UN. Only in this way will there be hope for a peaceful solution to the North Korean nuclear issue.