China warns of North Korea nuclear test, urges restraint

China called for restraint on Wednesday after the United Nations tightened sanctions on North Korea as punishment for a rocket launch, citing the possibility of another nuclear test by its wayward ally.

“The DPRK’s (North Korea’s) satellite launch as well as the possible nuclear test highlight the urgency and importance of settling relevant issues on the Korean peninsula,” foreign ministry spokesman Hong Lei told reporters.

“We hope all parties will bear in mind peace and stability of the Korean Peninsula, exercise calmness and restraint and avoid actions that might escalate tension.”

China backed a Security Council resolution passed on Tuesday in response to last month’s long-range rocket launch. The UN expanded the list of North Korean entities on the UN’s sanctions list but stopped short of imposing new penalties.

The North reacted defiantly, vowing to strengthen its nuclear and missile capabilities and fuelling speculation about a possible third nuclear test.

China is the North’s sole major ally and its leading energy supplier and trade partner. It is seen as one of the few nations able to influence Pyongyang’s behaviour.

Communist Party chief Xi Jinping called for dialogue and consultations to achieve the Korean peninsula’s denuclearisation and long-term stability.