China

Hu tells Bush: policy on nuclear issue will not change

(China Daily)
Updated: 2006-10-10 06:03

China has urged the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) to stop taking moves that may worsen the situation, and has expressed its hope that all parties concerned will persist in seeking a solution through consultation and dialogue, President Hu Jintao said last night.

He made the remark in a telephone conversation with US President George W. Bush after the DPRK announced it had conducted a nuclear test.

Hu told Bush that it has been China's consistent stance to realize non-nuclearization on the Korean Peninsula and to oppose proliferation of nuclear weapons to safeguard peace and security on the peninsula and in Northeast Asia. "This policy will not change," Hu said.

He expressed Beijing's wish to work jointly with Washington to deepen the development of Sino-US constructive partnership.

Hu noted that leaders of the two countries have maintained frequent exchange of views and consultations on international and regional issues of common concern. This is conducive to safeguarding peace and stability in Northeast Asia and the world.

Bush said the DPRK has embarked on a dangerous road with its nuclear test.

But the United States believes there is still room for diplomacy to settle the issue, and it will continue to communicate with China in this regard.

Xinhua

(China Daily 10/10/2006 page1)