China ‘may back’ new UN sanctions over North Korean missile test
Analysts say Beijing might want Pyongyang held accountable for increasing tensions
China might support a new round of UN sanctions against North Korea after Pyongyang launched another missile test just hours before Beijing held its biggest diplomatic event of the year, the belt and road forum, observers said.
North Korean leader Kim Jong-un hailed the launch on Sunday as a test of the “perfect weapon system” and capable of carrying “a large-size heavy nuclear warhead”.
North Korean ambassador to China Ji Jae-ryong also said Pyongyang’s ballistic missile test was part of the country’s efforts to develop ways to defend itself.
At the request of the United States and Japan, the United Nations Security Council will convene an urgent session on Tuesday to discuss responses to test. The council has condemned all five of North Korea’s launches this year.
US President Donald Trump called for tougher sanctions against Pyongyang. Russian President Vladimir Putin said the missile test was “dangerous” but added that Pyongyang was being intimidated.
Analysts said the UN Security Council would likely discuss new sanctions, with China possibly playing a role in their formation.