what are the relations with one or two rogue states north Korea or iran?
The relationship between various countries and North Korea and Iran can vary significantly. It is crucial to note that the term "rogue state" is subjective and carries political connotations.
North Korea:
1. China: Historically, China has been a close ally and economic lifeline for North Korea. While China has supported UN sanctions against North Korea due to its nuclear weapons program, they also provide essential economic support and serve as a diplomatic buffer for North Korea.
2. Russia: Russia maintains diplomatic relations with North Korea and has provided limited economic assistance. However, their relationship is not as strong as it was during the Soviet era.
3. South Korea: Relations between North and South Korea have been highly strained due to North Korea's nuclear weapons program and provocative actions. Nevertheless, there have been attempts at detente and dialogue, such as the 2018 inter-Korean summits and the ongoing peace process.
4. United States: Historically, the relationship between the U.S. and North Korea has been predominantly adversarial due to North Korea's pursuit of nuclear weapons. However, there have been intermittent diplomatic efforts, including various negotiations and summits in recent years.
Iran:
1. China: Iran and China enjoy strong economic ties, especially in the energy sector. China is a significant buyer of Iranian oil and has been a steadfast economic partner despite international sanctions.
2. Russia: Russia maintains a complex relationship with Iran. While cooperating on issues such as Syria, they often have divergent interests in the region, such as competition for influence in Central Asia.
3. European Union: The European Union, along with the United States, has been a party to the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) or Iran Nuclear Deal, which aimed to limit Iran's nuclear program in exchange for sanctions relief. However, tensions have risen since the U.S. withdrew from the JCPOA in 2018, and Iran has gradually scaled back its commitments to the agreement.
4. United States: The U.S. and Iran have a tumultuous relationship, marked by decades of political tension. The U.S. policy towards Iran has oscillated between hostility and limited engagement. Recent years have seen increased tensions due to the U.S. withdrawal from the JCPOA and the reimposition of economic sanctions on Iran.