The North Korean Nuclear Issue

The conflict between North Korea and other world powers over Pyongyang’s nuclear energy program and its potential security implications has been going on for years. The six-party nuclear discussions have made progress, and the talks appear to have moved from crisis mode to a more diplomatic process — but is North Korea any closer to abandoning its controversial nuclear ambitions?

Key Analysis

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The North Korean nuclear talks

North Korea: The Important Leap from Crisis Management

February 14, 2007 0019 GMT

During the Feb. 13, 2007, meeting of the six-party talks on North Korea's nuclear ambitions, the parties set a 60-day timeline for North Korea to shut down the Yongbyon nuclear plant (including the reprocessing facilities) and for the United States, China, Russia and South Korea to supply the equivalent of 50,000 tons of heavy fuel oil (which could include food or other types of aid as well). [more]

North Korea: Rice's Increasing Involvement

February 28, 2008 0853 GMT

U.S. Assistant Secretary of State Christopher Hill left China on Feb. 28 after spending an extra day in Beijing discussing North Korea with Chinese officials. [more]

Geopolitical Diary: U.S.-Northeast Asian Relations

January 31, 2008 0155 GMT

South Korean and U.S. officials met Jan. 30 to discuss ways to rebuild momentum in the stalled six-party process to denuclearize North Korea. [more]

Global Market Brief: The Uranium Race

January 10, 2008 1925 GMT

Japan and China have been involved in a race to secure present and future uranium supplies, as they see nuclear power eventually playing a significant part in their energy mix. [more]