All parties welcomed the DPRK's proposal of comprehensive stop of nuclear activities in Thursday's six-party talks, according to the Chinese Foreign Ministry.

The ministry said all parties considered the proposal a necessary step for the realization of dismantling nuclear program.

All parties also expressed understanding on the conditions raised by DPRK.

All parties discussed the first-phase action and corresponding measures for realizing a nuclear-free Korean Peninsular.

All parties adopted concerted steps in Thursday morning's discussions and had in-depth and practical exchanges of views, according to the ministry.

Chinese Vice Foreign Minister Wang Yi said that discussion in Thursday's talks were "substantial". The differences were gradually narrowing and consensus was growing even though there were still different viewpoints.

Wang, also China's chief negotiator at the talks, urged all parties to "keep patience, show flexibility and overcome difficulties so as to push forward the talks".

(Xinhua News Agency February 26, 2004)