UNSC imposes new sanctions on North Korea

The UN Security Council today unanimously adopted a resolution against the recent North Korean nuclear tests, which adds to the sanctions already imposed on the reclusive nation.

The resolution co-sponsored by the United States and China imposes new financial sanctions to block financial transactions in support of illicit North Korean activity, crack down on bulk cash transfers, and further restrict ties to North Korea's financial sector, if there is a link to its illicit activity.

"Acting unanimously and agreeing on effective and credible measures, the Security Council has sent an unequivocal message to the DPRK (Democratic People Republic of Korea) that the international community will not tolerate its pursuit of nuclear weapons and related acts," said a statement attributable to the spokesperson of the UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon.

"The Council action also demonstrates a firm commitment to upholding the global norm against any nuclear tests and strengthening the nuclear non-proliferation regime," he said.

Calling North Korea and other countries to fully comply with the resolution, Ban said he remains deeply concerned about heightened tension on the Korean Peninsula.
He urged the DPRK to refrain from any further destabilising steps or bellicose rhetoric.

"At a time of new political leadership throughout the region, the Secretary-General urges Pyongyang to reverse course and build confidence with the country's neighbours," said the statement.

The resolution among other things strengthens States' authority to inspect suspicious cargo and deny port and over flight access to DPRK-affiliated shipments where warranted; enables stronger enforcement of existing sanctions by other countries, sanctions new individuals and entities; and adds new items to the Security Council sanctions list.

Reiterating the Security Council's commitment to a diplomatic solution, the resolution welcomes efforts by other countries to facilitate such a solution through dialogue, and reaffirms support for the Six-Party Talks.

The resolution has four technical annexes that specify nuclear, ballistic missile, and chemical weapons-related technology that will be banned for transfer to and from North Korea; the companies that will be subject to a freeze of their assets and banned from doing any further business internationally; individuals who will be subject to a travel ban and freeze of their assets; and lists of specific luxury goods that are included in the ban on transfer to North Korea.

The resolution requires states to freeze or block any financial transaction or financial service that could contribute to North Korea's illicit programmes or the violation of Security Council resolutions.

It calls on member states to prohibit the opening of North Korean bank branches on their territories if there is a link to North Korea's illicit programs or the violation of Security Council resolutions.