All parties expressed determination to realize denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula on the second day of six-party talks yesterday.

A three-hour full session and several bilateral discussions were held yesterday.

 

South Korea proposed a joint statement, under which North Korea would commit to giving up its nuclear program, while in return other countries would pledge to normalize relations with Pyongyang by offering security guarantees and economic assistance, the South Korean media reported.

 

The joint statement could be signed based on the principle of "words for words" and "actions for actions," the South Korean delegation said.

 

It also pledged to offer continuous and sustainable electricity aid to Pyongyang if the latter decides to abandon its nuclear program.

 

Kim Kye-gwan, head of the North Korean delegation, said Pyongyang is willing to abandon its nuclear program if the nuclear threat from the US is eliminated and bilateral relations normalized, the Yonhap News Agency said.

 

He said the common goal for a nuclear-free Korean Peninsula should be realized step by step based on mutual trust.

 

Kim also vowed North Korea would abandon its nuclear weapons program in a verifiable way if Washington promises to give up its intention to overthrow the North's political system and adopts peaceful coexistence.

 

The US has said it is ready to normalize relations with North Korea if Pyongyang renounces its nuclear program.

 

A senior US official said last night in Beijing that the US delegation is planning to hold more bilateral meetings with North Korea this week within the framework of the six-party talks.

 

Chinese chief delegate Wu Dawei called on all sides to seize opportunities, meet challenges and work together with their utmost political courage to create a better future for Northeast Asia.

 

Through a series of one-on-one meetings, the six parties exchanged views in a candid and in-depth way and enhanced mutual understanding, he said.

 

Japanese chief negotiator Kenichiro Sasae told the morning session that Japan is willing to cooperate with other countries and participate in the talks in a constructive manner.

 

He said the normalization of relationship between Tokyo and Pyongyang is in the common interests of both sides.

 

(China Daily July 28, 2005)