New North Korea Nuclear Test Possible, China Says

A new nuclear test by North Korea is possible, according to China’s top general. Chief of the General Staff Fen. Fang Fenghui, stated that the possibility underscores the need for talks between Pyongyang and other parties in the region.

The general added that China opposes the North’s nuclear weapons program and is open to working with other countries on negotiations to end it.

Fang added that Beijing’s preference is for a return to the long-stalled disarmament talks. The negotiations involved the two Koreas, China, Russia, Japan, and the United States.

The top Chinese general did not add when the country thinks North Korea could follow through with another nuclear test or give any details about the possibility. He told reporters on Monday:

“We ask all sides to work actively to work on the North Koreans to stop nuclear tests and stop producing nuclear weapons. We believe that dialogue should be the right solution.”

Pyongyang has repeatedly threatened to attack the United States and South Korea over their recent military operations and sanctions by the UN. The two countries, South Korea and the United States, conduct annual military drills.

Feng spoke on Monday after meeting with General Martin Dempsey, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, whose first visit to China came amid heightened tensions between the three countries.

The news that China disapproves of North Korea’s nuclear program is likely a blow to Pyongyang. Beijing has been the North’s most important diplomatic ally, main trading partner, and even a key source of food and fuel aid. But despite the relationship, Beijing has said if has limited influence with Pyongyang.

Fang also declined to say if Beijing would adopt tougher measures to pressure North Korea into reducing tensions between it and South Korea. Pyongyang announced last month that it had torn up the cease-fire agreement between the two countries.