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Date : March 16, 2016
U.N. Toughens Sanctions on North Korea in Response to Its Nuclear Program
   http://www.nytimes.com/2016/03/03/world/asia/north-korea-un-sanctions. [1511]

Due to North Korea's testing of nuclear bombs and ballistic missiles, the United Nations Security Council voted unanimously to impose severe penalties against North Korea.

The 15-member Council approved a draft resolution that called for inspecting all cargo going in and out of the country. In the past, inspections were required only if there was reasonable suspicion of contraband aboard. 

According to Diplomats, the resolution contained the most stringent measures to undermine North Korea's ability to raise money and secure technology and other resources for its nuclear weapons program.

The resolution prohibits North Korea from sending martial arts experts to train police officers in foreign countries, and it also requires countries to expel North Korean diplomats accused of illicit acts. 

The Obama administration welcomed passage of the resolution and announced related actions by the Treasury and State Departments that levied sanctions on five North Korean government entities.

Daryl Kimball, executive director of the Arms Control Association said the sanctions were useful as leverage to persuade Pyongyang to return to the bargaining table. 

However, the Chinese ambassador, Liu Jieyi, expressed skepticism about the effectiveness of sanctions. Sanctions are not an end to themselves, and the Security Council cannot fundamentally resolve the nuclear issue on the Korean Peninsula, Mr. Liu said.

Nevertheless, it is up to China to control the effectiveness of sanctions against North Korea such as a booming network of trade and smuggling across its 870-mile border. 

Source: The New York Times.





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