China strictly follows UN Security Council resolutions on DPRK

China was investigating allegations that a ship transferred cargo to a Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) vessel in a potential violation of UN sanctions on the high seas, and will comprehensively and strictly implement the resolutions on the DPRK approved by the UN Security Council, Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Geng Shuang said on Thursday.

"China attaches high importance to the situation and is currently investigating this," Geng told a regular press briefing.

"Recently, the relevant Chinese authorities issued a public notice demanding the strict prohibition of ship-to-ship trafficking in accordance with UN Security Council resolutions," he said.

He added that China would deal with any individuals or businesses suspected of violating the resolutions "in strict accordance with China's laws and regulations, based on all evidence."

Japan has said a military patrol plane and an escort vessel observed the alleged transfer in the East China Sea last week. It is the third time this year that Tokyo has reported a cargo transfer by a DPRK vessel in violation of UN sanctions over Pyongyang's banned nuclear and ballistic missile programs.

(AGENCIES & CGTN)