By Shannon Tiezzi
China-South Korea ties may be at their “best ever,” but the two sides are far from united on an approach to Pyongyang.
South Korean President Park Geun-hye gave her annual New Year address and press conference on Wednesday. Coming one week after North Korea conducted its fourth nuclear test, Park’s remarks included a call for the “strongest yet sanctions” on Pyongyang – and for China, North Korea’s major international partner, to do its part to add to the pressure.
In her address, Park called for the UN to implement “bone-numbing” sanctions on North Korea. She warned that these sanctions must be “strong enough to change North Korea’s attitude” – something that clearly didn’t happen after the first, second, or third nuclear tests.
Park acknowledged that China has a major role to play in making sure this round of sanctions has more of an impact. “China has repeatedly said publicly that it would not tolerate North Korea’s nuclear weapons,” she said. “I think China is fully aware that if such strong will is not matched by necessary measures, we cannot prevent fifth and sixth nuclear tests by the North or guarantee real peace and stability on the Korean Peninsula.”
“Holding the hands of those in need is (the role of) best partners,” Park added. “I believe China will play a necessary role as a standing member of the U.N. Security Council.”
Read the full story at The Diplomat