During the conversation, Bush spoke highly of the Chinese government's extraordinary work in fighting severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) and said the US side is willing to offer any possible support and assistance.

Hu said the Chinese government gives priority to people's health and life and is stepping up implementation of effective measures to fight SARS.

Noting that SARS is the common enemy of the human being, Hu said China is ready to strengthen cooperation with the international community.

The Chinese government is confident in and capable of effectively containing and winning the fight against SARS after arduous efforts, stressed Hu.

On the Beijing talks on the nuclear issue of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK), Bush expressed his appreciation for China's positive efforts, saying he agreed to continue this process to solve the issue through diplomatic means.

Hu said the Beijing talks was a good beginning for a peaceful resolution to the issue and the Chinese side holds that the non-nuclearization on the Korean peninsula is conducive to regional peace and stability and conforms to the interests of all parties.

Meanwhile, the security concern of the DPRK side should also be addressed, said Hu.

While the issue is complicated, Hu said, ways to solve the issue will be found so long

The Chinese side will continue making its own efforts to push for a peaceful resolution to the issue, noted Hu.

(Xinhua News Agency April 26, 2003)