Prime Minister Malcom Turnbull described North Korea as one of the world’s most “cunning, sophisticated criminals” during his visit to Hong Kong. 

He added that North Korea operates like criminals rather than a state, and is involved in many serious crimes including drug trafficking. 

“Whether it is arms, whether it is cyber-crime, whether it is drugs, they are constantly raising money to finance their nuclear program,” he said. 

In addition, he said that the actions against North Korea over its nuclear weapons program is one of the “single most priorities for the world today,” at the Asian Pacific Economic Cooperation summit in Danang, Vietnam. 
Mr Turnbull expressed strong support for US President Donald Trump and China’s President Xi Jinping to work together, and reaffirmed both president’s commitments after the event.  

“I believe they have a personal chemistry and understanding that will never eliminate interest in national interest and agendas, but I believe and am confident they can work together,” Mr Turnbull said. 

“It is vital that particularly China and the United States work closely on that,” he added. 

Mr Turnbull emphasised the importance of the relationship between the U.S. and China, and stated that if the two countries can cooperate, North Korea will be “brought back to its senses”. 

Further, he urged tighter economic and financial sanctions on North Korea to countries attending Asia’s security summit in Manila.