The EU is taking further action against North Korea in another sign of growing concern about its development of ballistic missiles.
On Monday, the council issued a statement setting out the latest action.
It read, “In light of the continued development of ballistic missiles by the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK) in violation of the relevant UN Security Council resolutions (UNSCRs), the Council decided to add eight individuals and four entities to the list of those subject to EU restrictive measures.”
“The new listings target those engaged in or providing support and funds for DPRK’s nuclear-related and ballistic-missile-related programmes.”
“Among the sanctioned entities, the EU included two oil tankers and delivery vessels because of their involvement in actions that violate UNSCRs. Furthermore, the DPRK Ministry of Rocket Industry was added to the list for it role in procuring finance and components for use in the development of missile and nuclear technology prohibited by UNSCRs.”
“EU restrictive measures now apply to a total of 73 individuals and 17 entities. They comprise an asset freeze, a travel ban to the EU and a prohibition to make funds or economic resources available to those listed.”
“In addition, the EU has transposed all relevant UNSCRs, which impose sanctions against 80 persons and 75 entities.The statement read, “The EU condemns the significant increase of illegal missile launches by DPRK and its continuous undermining of the global non-proliferation regime. The EU calls on the DPRK to comply with its obligations under international law and resume dialogue with relevant parties.”