With the extensive support from the governments and peoples of the six nations, as well as from the international community, the goal of denuclearization on the Korean Peninsula is irreversible, nor is the process of peace talks or the historical trend on the peninsula toward peace and stability, said Chinese Vice Foreign Minister Wang Yi in Beijing Saturday.

Wang, also head of the Chinese delegation to the just-concluded six-party talks on the Korean Peninsula nuclear issue, made the remarks at a press conference.

This round of talks is convened at a time when the peace talks entered the critical phase, and as the host nation China is happy for the progress achieved, Wang said, adding the hard-won progress has not only consolidated the achievements made so far, but paved the way for future talks, and deserves cherish.

He said this round of talks is featured with calm atmosphere, substantial contents and in-depth discussions. It is positive and pragmatic and reflects the spirits of mutual respect, equality and consultations. While putting forward their own solution proposals, the parties also showed respect for each other's plans.

For example, Wang said, the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) side said it would carefully study the all-round settlement proposal raised by the United States, and the US side also promised to carefully look into the DPRK scheme. Besides, the US side held that there are elements in common between the DPRK and its own proposals, which will become the important basis on which the talks can further proceed until an eventual solution to the problems.

"Meanwhile, we know clearly that the nuclear issue is highly complicated and there is still a serious lack of mutual trust between relevant sides. The basis of the talks is not solid enough, and there are still a number of differences and even opposing ideas on the scope and means of denuclearization, on nuclear freeze and corresponding measures," Wang said.

He said as the substantial discussions proceed further, new difficulties will inevitably crop up. "We have been fully aware of that," he said.

Wang promised that China will continue to actively mediate with an objective and fair stance and work for the peace, security and prosperity of the Korean Peninsula and the region.

(Xinhua News Agency June 26, 2004)