Zhang made the remarks at a regular press conference, praising the positive developments in the peninsula. The relations between the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) and the United States, Japan and Russia have shown improvement recently, she said.

Zhang said China has learned the United States will send an envoy to the DPRK for discussions over security issues, a move she called "a positive step".

Zhang hoped all sides will improve relations with the DPRK and increase mutual trust through serious dialogue so as to promote the detente in the peninsula.

(Xinhua News Agency September 26, 2002)