UN powers propose tougher North Korea sanctions

Western powers have reached agreement with North Korea’s key allies on a United Nations proposal that would impose tough new sanctions on the reclusive communist nation’s weapons exports and allow inspections of suspect cargo in ports and on the high seas.

The draft resolution, which must still be approved by the UN Security Council, is aimed at preventing North Korea from obtaining and exporting material and know-how to produce nuclear weapons and ballistic missiles – and from getting the money to finance the programme.