Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesman Kong Quan Thursday said keeping the Korean Peninsula free of nuclear weapons is of vital importance for the peace and stability of the region.

Kong spoke at a regular press conference in response to a foreign journalist's question concerning reports of high-explosive device tests linked to nuclear weapons development carried out by the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK).

Kong said the China had not heard such information, but he reiterated China's stance on the DPRK nuclear issue, urging that the peninsula should be free of nuclear weapons.

But Kong said the DPRK's proper concerns over security should also be addressed. The final purpose of all efforts on the DPRK nuclear issue was to maintain peace and stability on the Korean Peninsula, and Asia as a whole.

He said Chinese president Hu Jintao and visiting President Roh Moo-hyun of the Republic of Korea (ROK) agreed in Beijing that the DPRK nuclear issue should be settled peacefully through talks, and the Korean Peninsula should be nuclear free.

Also at the press conference, Kong said that China appreciates Spain respect for China's stance opposing the sale of weapons of any kind to Taiwan.

China is firmly opposed to the sales of weapons of any kind to Taiwan by any country, said Kong.

Spanish Foreign Minister Ana Palacio extended his government's respect for China's stance on this issue during his visit to China, said Kong, adding that China appreciated Spain's position.

A proper handle on Taiwan issue was the political basis for a good relationship between China and countries that have diplomatic ties with China, said Kong.

The Foreign Ministry spokesman also announced that Lassana Traore, Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of the Republic of Mali, will visit China from July 15 to 20, at the invitation of Chinese Foreign Minister Li Zhaoxing.

(Xinhua News Agency July 11, 2003)