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)