Diplomatic Courier: Six Party Talks
As is my wont, I have written another article for the Diplomatic Courier which can be found by placing your cursor “here” and clicking. Simple enough, right? This piece is replete with tidbits and insights about the ongoing negotiations between the six parties – China, Japan, Russia, South Korea, the U.S. and North Korea – to denuclearize the Korean peninsula. Need more persuading? Here is a nugget to whet your appetite:
Following the October 9, 2006 test, Pyongyang hoped that it would reap the fruits of its nuclear labor by being diplomatically recognized and granted access to the global financial system. Instead, the reverse happened as
the North found itself increasingly isolated, with even its closest ally, China, condemning its actions.As such, North Korea’s more malleable position is likely an effort to normalize relations, in particular with Washington. Under the new agreement, the two nations will move towards “a full diplomatic relationship.”
The official, who wished to remain anonymous due to the sensitivity of ongoing negotiations, was quick to point out that the six party talks are primarily intended to denuclearize the Korean peninsula and not to improve bilateral relations between states, though the two issues are inextricably linked.
It is unclear whether the Dear Leader has made a “strategic change” to give up his country’s nuclear weapons program. Even if this is the case, DPRK officials would not acknowledge this change as it would weaken their negotiating position and run contrary to the country’s history of secrecy.
Well, if at this point you are dribbling intellectually and need a fix of international diplomacy – which, come on, always gets the juices flowing – the rest of the article is available here. Enjoy!
