Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Qin Gang on Thursday called on parties involved in the Korean Peninsula nuclear issue to safeguard peace and stability on the peninsula and northeast Asia.

"All relevant countries are obligated to maintain peace and stability on the Korean Peninsula and northeast Asia as well as to push forward the six-party talks," Qin said to reporters at a regular press briefing.

Qin's remarks came in response to a question concerning the Democratic People's Republic of Korea's (DPRK) planned satellite launch.

"China has paid close attention to the development of the issue. Parties involved should stay cool-headed and show restraint at the current stage, and avoid any action that may further complicate the situation," he said.

The DPRK has declared it will launch a communication satellite sometime between April 4 and 8.

(Xinhua News Agency April 3, 2009)