Jiang: Changes in Korean Peninsula Conducive to Peace, Stability

Jiang: Changes in Korean Peninsula Conducive to Peace, Stability

Chinese President Jiang Zemin said Wednesday in Bandar Seri Begawan that the recent positive changes in the Korean peninsula are in the fundamental interest of the Korean nation and conducive to peace and stability in the peninsula and the whole region.

In his meeting with President of Republic of Korea Kim Dae-Jung, Jiang expressed China's support and welcome to these changes.

The two sides of the Korean peninsula have recently improved their relations and carried out exchanges toward their common target of eventual peaceful reunification.

"Everything is difficult at the beginning," Jiang told his South Korean counterpart, citing a Chinese saying. "Now the beginning is good" in the Korean peninsula.

Jiang said China's stance on the Korean issue is "consistent."

As usual, Jiang said, China will maintain a positive attitude toward everything beneficial to peace and stability in the peninsula and continue to support the peace process in the peninsula.

After briefing Jiang on the progress made by the two sides after the South-North Korean summit, President Kim said the two sides have achieved remarkable results in easing tension and undertaking substantial exchanges and cooperation.

He also expressed appreciation and gratitude for the support of the Chinese government for the improvement and growth of relations across the Korean peninsula.

Both Jiang and Kim are here attending the 8th Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation informal leadership meeting.