A number of foreign media outlets expect troubled ties between China and North Korea after the North’s recent nuclear test, suggesting that Pyongyang’s move will likely accelerate the international community’s imposing of sanctions.

"The Independent," a British daily, said Thursday that North Korea made a fatal mistake of deteriorating ties with China, one of its only allies, by conducting the nuclear test.

British newspaper "The Guardian" said China and the United States are now more likely to cooperate on matters relating to the North after Pyongyang’s detonation of a nuclear device.

A researcher at the U.S. think tank "Brookings Institute" said China may end up abandoning diplomatic efforts to stop the North from pursuing nuclear-state status and rather support moves for economic sanctions.