The current mineral resources trade between China and North Korea accords with relevant UN Security Council resolutions and China's domestic laws, a Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson said.

It was reported that Daniel Russel, U.S. assistant secretary of state for East Asia and the Pacific, said on Wednesday that China's purchases of coal and other economic activities have created a lifeline for Pyongyang, which reduces the impact of global sanctions.

Spokesperson Geng Shuang reiterated yesterday that China is opposed to North korea developing nuclear weapons and is committed to realizing denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula. "This position is consistent and clear," Geng said at a press conference.

China is a responsible country and has faithfully implemented relevant UN Security Council resolutions and honored its international obligations in non-proliferation, Geng said. "These efforts are clear for all to see.''

The cause and crux of the Korean Peninsula nuclear issue do not rest with China, and the core of the issue is the conflict between North Korea and the United States. The United States should take due responsibility to play a constructive role in solving the issue, Geng said, noting that China will continue to make unremitting efforts for proper settlement.

In response to recent reports that the United States is investigating a number of Chinese companies for suspected breaches of the sanctions against North Korea, Geng said any misconduct by any enterprise or individual, once found and confirmed, will be dealt with seriously.

We stand ready to cooperate with relevant countries in this process on the basis of mutual respect and equal treatment, the spokesperson said.

If any country tries to exercise "long-arm jurisdiction" by enforcing its domestic laws over Chinese enterprises and individuals, we are firmly opposed to that, Geng said.-Xinhua