BEIJING, July 8 -- China said on Tuesday it supports the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) and the Republic of Korea (ROK) to improve their ties through dialogue.

"China always supports the two countries to improve their relations and realize reconciliation and cooperation, and to achieve independent and peaceful reunification ultimately," said Foreign Ministry spokesman Hong Lei at a daily press conference.

Hong made the remarks while commenting a statement issued by the DPRK, which said it will send a cheering squad to the upcoming Asian Games scheduled for Sept. 19 to Oct. 4 in ROK city of Incheon.

"We hope the two sides could continue to show goodwill, reach consensus and strive for the improvement of ties, so as to jointly maintain the region's peace and stability," Hong said.