The issue of denuclearization in the Korea Peninsula is the first step to look at in the way ahead, said Christopher Hill, head of the US delegation to the fifth-round six-party talks.

 

Hill briefed journalists at hotel after his arrival on Tuesday evening, saying that all parties concerned should make a review after last round of the six-party talks in September and discuss next steps.

 

"The first step is to look at the issue of the denuclearization in the Korea Peninsula." Hill said while mentioning the first step in further discussion.

 

As to the "roadmap," Hill confirmed that the US side has thoughts of its own, however, "other delegations also have specific ideas", said Hill, adding that parties involved are supposed to discuss with each other about ideas of their own.

 

A joint statement was adopted at the fourth-round six-party talks held last month, in which North Korea agreed to abandon all nuclear weapons and existing nuclear programs in exchange for energy aid and security guarantees.

 

(Xinhua News Agency November 9, 2005)