The Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) attaches great importance to the upcoming torch relay in Pyongyang, a "very important warming-up of the Beijing Olympic Games," the country's newly-selected Olympic chief has said.

"The torch relay...will help popularize the concepts and spirits of the Olympics and arouse public attention to the Games," said Park Hak Seon, chairman of the DPRK's National Olympic Committee.

He made the remarks at a recent meeting with Chinese Ambassador to the DPRK Liu Xiaoming, one of the many contacts between officials from the two sides made these days to ensure a safe and successful torch relay in this DPRK capital.

What Park said just reveals the eager anticipation of the DPRK people to the torch relay in Pyongyang. It is the first time for the Olympic flame to come to the DPRK.

On April 12, the National Olympic Committee of the DPRK voiced support to the Beijing Olympic torch relay and condemned disruptions against it in some cites.

As China's friendly neighbor, the whole DPRK, from its top leader to the rank and file, has extended earnest support and best wishes to the Beijing Olympic Games and shown ardent zeal to the torch relay.

"China to hold the Olympic Games reflects its increasing national power. It is not only the pride of the Chinese people, but also the glory belonging to the people of Asia and the world as a whole," DPRK top leader Kim Jong Il said while visiting the Chinese embassy in March.

Kim expressed his best wishes for the successful Beijing Olympic Games and a successful torch relay in Pyongyang.