Q: The DPRK leader Kim Jong-il said that the hostile relations between the DPRK and the U.S. must be transformed into relations of peace through their bilateral talks. Based on the progress of such talks, the DPRK is ready to have multilateral talks including the Six-party Talks. What's China's comment? Do you believe that the outcome of DPRK-US talks is the precondition of the resumption of the Six-party Talks? Can such talks replace the Six-party Talks? Will the bilateral talks undermine China's role in the denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula?

A: China's position on the Korean nuclear issue has been consistent and unequivocal. We appreciate the commitment of the DPRK to denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula and reaching this goal through multilateral talks including the Six-party Talks. It is the consensus of all parties concerned to ensure a nuclear-weapon-free Peninsula and safeguard peace and stability in Northeast Asia through dialogue and negotiation. The Six-party Talks is an effective mechanism for the above-mentioned goal, which bears on the interests of all parties and calls for joint efforts. The Chinese side has always supported the DPRK-US bilateral talks as they will enhance mutual understanding and trust. At the same time, the Chinese side believes that all parties should stick to the Six-party Talks process and make concerted efforts for the early resumption of the process. China is ready to continue to work with other parties, the DPRK included, to make positive contribution to the denuclearization on the Korean Peninsula as well as peace, stability and development of Northeast Asia.