China Avoids Comment on N.Korean Artillery Attack

The Chinese government on Tuesday avoided direct comment on North Korea's artillery attack on the South Korean island of Yeonpyeong and instead called on Seoul to do more for peace and urged a resumption of six-party nuclear talks. It also had no comment on North Korea's uranium enrichment program.

Asked in a press briefing about China's position on the North's unveiling of the uranium facility, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Hong Lei said China has "taken note of related reports." He added Beijing's consistent policy is to realize denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula through dialogue.

He urged resumption of the six-party talks as soon as possible. "It is necessary to properly handle concerns of each country through dialogue within the framework of the six-party talks," he said.

Commenting on the artillery attack, he said Beijing is "concerned" but added, "The real situation needs to be confirmed."

He expressed hope that the two Koreas will do "things conducive to peace and stability in the Korean Peninsula." Hong added that consistent pursuit of the six-party process and the implementation of "all goals" set by a statement of principles of September 2005 will serve the interests of all countries involved.