With DPRK to maintain regional stability: Diplomat

Assistant Foreign Minister Liu Zhenmin said on Sunday that it is the unwavering policy of the Communist Party of China (CPC) and the Chinese government to continuously consolidate and develop relations of friendship and cooperation with the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK).

Liu made the remarks in an exclusive interview with Xinhua on the situation in Asia and China's diplomacy with neighboring countries.

China's communication with all related parties was effective, and relevant parties reached a comprehensive consensus on safeguarding regional peace and stability, he said.

It will be in the common interests of relevant parties for the DPRK to maintain stability and development, for the Korean Peninsula to stay peaceful and stable, and for Northeast Asia to realize long-term peace and order. And the international community also shares these aspirations in this regard, Liu said.

The DPRK is an important part of regional affairs on the Korean Peninsula and in Northeast Asia, he said.

In regards to China's expectations in developing ties with the DPRK, Liu said China will properly inherit and develop relations in the spirit of carrying on tradition, looking toward the future, upholding good-neighborly friendship and strengthening cooperation.

China will continue to provide support and assistance within its capacity to the DPRK, China's friendly neighbor, he said.

In terms of China's role in the situation in Northeast Asia following the death of DPRK leader Kim Jong Il, Liu said China actively conducted communication with relevant parties, including the DPRK.

China believes that under the leadership of the Workers' Party of Korea and Comrade Kim Jong Un, the people of the DPRK will turn grief into strength and carry forward the DPRK's cause of socialism, he said.