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If there's any country that has the capacity not to…

“If there's any country that has the capacity not to control North Korea, but to influence North Korea, it's still China. The Chinese always say they have very little influence. They have more than they say they do. We should put pressure on them to do it and there's finally, we're seeing the first…” quote by Richard N. Haass
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“If there's any country that has the capacity not to control North Korea, but to influence North Korea, it's still China. The Chinese always say they have very little influence. They have more than they say they do. We should put pressure on them to do it and there's finally, we're seeing the first signs of a little bit of Chinese disaffection. At some point they're getting tired of the antics of this country. This is a dangerous ally for China to have. And the more Chinese can pressure them and put the economic screws on them, the better it will be for everybody.”

Richard N. Haass

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

China has more leverage over North Korea than it admits; applying pressure could curb Pyongyang’s aggression.

In simple terms: China can influence North Korea more than it says.

Key Takeaway

Encourage China to use its influence.

Themes

geopolitics China North Korea diplomacy

Mood

cautious strategic concerned

Type

political analytical

When to use this quote

  • UN negotiations
  • sanctions enforcement
  • bilateral talks
  • economic leverage

Key Concepts

balance of power strategic pressure regional stability

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can the international community persuade China to act?
  • What risks arise if China remains passive?
A Different Perspective

China may prioritize its own interests over global security concerns.

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