"The realization of dialogue requires political will and sincerity from all parties concerned," Liu told a regular briefing. "It also needs the encouragement and support of the international community."

China has been a strong advocate for the peaceful resolution of the dispute between the DPRK and the US since tension escalated last autumn.

"The nuclear issue on the Korean Peninsula must be resolved peacefully through dialogue," reiterated Liu. "From this principle, China has been making active and constructive efforts for this goal."

The tense situation on the Korean Peninsula shows signs of improvement after the DPRK agreed on Saturday that it will not stick to any particular dialogue format for settlement of the nuclear issue if the US drops its anti-DPRK policy.

China Will Offer Consideration on Iraq Reconstruction

China will put forward its consideration of the issue of Iraq's post-war reconstruction at the appropriate time, the Foreign Ministry spokesman said.

China holds that the post-war reconstruction of Iraq should be conducted within the framework of the United Nations, and "China is also willing to take part in it."

When asked for the specific measures China would take in this regard, Liu said China will be open to any measure, provided it benefits both the Iraqi people and the restoration of peace and stability in Iraq.

China is willing to improve communication and coordination with all parties, said Liu, adding that it will offer its consideration at the appropriate time.

Liu also said China emphasizes that the international community should respect Iraq's sovereignty and territorial integrity, Iraqi people's will and choice, the reasonable concerns of all Iraq's neighboring countries as well as all countries' legitimate interests in Iraq.

(People's Daily April 18, 2003)