The text of Resolution 1874, which does not authorise the use of force, calls on UN member states to slap expanded sanctions on North Korea in response to its May 25 underground nuclear test and subsequent missile firings.
It also 'demands that the DPRK not conduct any further nuclear test or any launch using ballistic missile technology' and abandon all nuclear weapons and programmes 'in a complete, verifiable and irreversible manner.' The sanctions include tougher inspections of cargo suspected of containing banned items related to North Korea's nuclear and ballistic missile activities, a tighter arms embargo with the exception of light weapons, and new targeted financial restrictions to choke off revenue for Pyongyang's nuclear and ballistic sectors.
Ms Rice said that the United States would now confront any ships believed to be carrying suspect material to North Korea and ask to board them to carry out checks.
If US authorities get information that a boat is suspected of carrying banned material to North Korea, they would immediately alert all ports on its route, she added. -- AFP