Delegates to the second round of six-party talks on the Korean nuclear issue held their all-member conference in Beijing Wednesday following the opening meeting.  

Heads of delegations from China, the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK), the United States, the Republic of Korea (ROK), Russia and Japan expounded their positions on resolving the issue in a calm and relaxed atmosphere, a Chinese official said.

While there were disparities, certain consensus was reached among the parties. They agreed to resolve the nuclear issue through peaceful means, and decided the talks should continue no matter what difficulties occur.

The six parties further clarified the goal of denuclearization, believing fulfilling of the objective served the interests of all nations and helped maintain peace, stability and prosperity in northeast Asia.

They agreed to take coordinated steps to resolve the issue and address their concerns, sharing the view that actions were the most effective way to build trust.

The delegates also held preliminary discussions on substantive issues, and put forward suggestions.

The parties had direct contacts Wednesday afternoon and will resume the talks Thursday.

(Xinhua News Agency February 25, 2004)