Disagreement over the development of nuclear facilities in Iran and the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) should be resolved by means of dialogue and negotiation, said Hu Xiaodi, Chinese ambassador for disarmament affairs to the UN.  

Hu made the remark whilst discussing the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA)'s annual report to the 59th United Nations General Assembly on November 1.

He said the Chinese government has paid close attention to the security situation in Northeast Asia and has consistently advocated a peaceful settlement of the Korean nuclear dispute in order to maintain peace and stability in this region. Whilst denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula is the aim, the DPRK's just concern over security should be given due consideration.

For this purpose, China has hosted three rounds of six-party talks, which set the goals of denuclearization and a peaceful solution to the issue. Substantive progress has been achieved in the talks, Hu said.

Presently China is trying to persuade all the parties concerned to return to the negotiating table. To hold a new round of talks as soon as possible is in the interest of all sides and is the international community's common wish. The issue is complex, Hu said, but China hopes all the parties concerned will have patience and show sincerity and flexibility.

China also advocates a proper settlement of the Iran nuclear issue through dialogue and negotiation within the IAEA framework, the ambassador stated. China hopes Iran will continue to cooperate with the IAEA, clear up any remaining questions and sign an additional protocol to the nuclear inspection treaty at an early date. At the same time, Iran should be encouraged to take new measures to build confidence and increase transparency.

Hu said China is ready to maintain contact with all the parties concerned and supports their diplomatic efforts to resolve the issue as soon as possible. China expects and believes a solution to be reached that is conducive to nuclear non-proliferation and in the interest of the international community.

(China.org.cn by Shao Da, November 3, 2004)