Source:
https://scmp.com/news/china/diplomacy-defence/article/2099599/decision-time-china-pressure-builds-rein-north-korea
China/ Diplomacy

Torn between options, what can China do to rein in North Korea?

Washington wants Beijing to take a tougher line on Pyongyang – including taking action against companies it says support the regime – but China doesn’t want to be seen as caving in to the US, analysts say

The “Hwasong-12” ballistic missile is launched in North Korea in this photo released by Pyongyang on May 14. Photo: AP

Any punitive measures by Beijing against companies allegedly ­supporting North Korea would be carefully calibrated – to push Pyongyang to stop its nuclear tests but avoid being seen as giving in to US pressure, analysts say.

Restrictions on tourists going to North Korea could also be an option after the death of an American student who was detained there, the analysts said, although China also wanted to ensure that the regime remained stable.