New Zealand is welcoming the adoption of a United Nations Security Council resolution imposing new, strengthened sanctions against North Korea.
180714. Photo RNZ. Foreign Minister Murray McCully talking with media about the Mayalsia Airlines MH17 flight. Photo: RNZ
The Security Council unanimously adopted a resolution significantly expanding international sanctions in response to North Korea's nuclear test last month.
The sanctions will result in all cargo going to and from the country being inspected, while new individuals and organisations have been blacklisted.
Foreign Affairs Minister Murray McCully said New Zealand had already condemned North Korea's recent nuclear test and long-range rocket launch.
"North Korea's actions blatantly contravene previous Security Council resolutions and stand in direct opposition to international opinion.
"New Zealand supports the new sanctions which have been adopted and we hope they will convince North Korea to cease its provocative behaviour and return to talks on denuclearisation of the Korean peninsula", Mr McCully said.
"The Security Council resolution strengthens existing sanctions on North Korea covering weapons of mass destruction, arms and luxury goods, and imposes new economic measures affecting transport, banking, and trade."
New Zealand would continue to urge North Korea to refrain from actions which undermine stability in the region and would be taking steps to implement the resolution, he said.
