China on Signs of Imminent North Korean Nuclear Test: "Denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula Is a Shared Interest"

[Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Kim Min-young] The Chinese government stated regarding signs that North Korea's 7th nuclear test is imminent, "Maintaining peace and stability on the Korean Peninsula and realizing denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula align with the common interests of all relevant parties and the international community."

Zhao Lijian, spokesperson for the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs, responded at a regular briefing on the 7th when asked if China plans to prevent North Korea's nuclear test, saying, "China hopes that all relevant parties face each other and move forward together, striving to promote the political resolution process of the Korean Peninsula issue." Zhao's remarks emphasizing denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula appear to indirectly express opposition to North Korea's nuclear test.

However, Zhao also urged the United States to make concessions, blaming the current situation on the U.S. not responding to North Korea's sincerity. Regarding the U.S. position that it has sought dialogue with North Korea, he pointed out, "The problem with the current situation on the Korean Peninsula is that the U.S. did not respond according to the action-for-action principle to North Korea's denuclearization measures in 2018 (declaration of moratorium on nuclear tests and intercontinental ballistic missile launches and closure of the nuclear test site), and did not consider North Korea's legitimate and reasonable concerns." He added, "The U.S. should not just shout slogans about dialogue but show goodwill and take substantive actions."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.