US Should Work Closely With China, Russia on North Korean Nuclear Issue - Kerry

The United States should work with other countries, including China and Russia, in tackling the problem of North Korea’s nuclear program, US Secretary of State John Kerry stated on Wednesday.

WASHINGTON (Sputnik) — Kerry explained that the dangers posed by North Korea’s nuclear tests and the development of long-range ballistic missiles are a “genuine threat to the United States and to [its] allies in the region.”

“It is essential that we work closely in every way about all of our values and interests from a position of strength with our partners South Korea and Japan, as well as work with China, Russia and others who have stakes in the outcome of this challenge with the DPRK,” Kerry said, referring to North Korea.

On Monday, the US Treasury Department announced sanctions against Chinese company Dandong Hongxiang Industrial Development and four executives allegedly tied to North Korea’s weapons programs.

In addition, the US Justice Department charged the Chinese company and some of its executives with money laundering and conspiracy to evade sanctions.

North Korea has been under pressure from the international community since a nuclear test and the launch of a long-range rocket early this year. In March, the United Nations adopted a resolution that tightened sanctions against Pyongyang.

On September 9, North Korea carried out its fifth and most powerful nuclear test.