To China, North Korea Looks Radioactive

China’s reluctance to negotiate directly with North Korea about its nuclear program has surprised the Bush administration and Chinese foreign policy experts. China’s interests could be seriously threatened if North Korea is not dissuaded from building nuclear weapons. Such a buildup in North Korea could shift the balance of power in the region, should surrounding nations like Japan revive their nuclear weapons programs in fear of a North Korean threat. Thus far, Chinese officials have been ambiguous in their statements on the issue. If the United States is left to handle the situation without China’s help, will Kim Jong Il's ambitions be checked? – YaleGlobal