Accessibility links

Breaking News

China Promises to Pressure N. Korea Back to Nuclear Talks


U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry has completed a two-day visit to China, pleased at Beijing's commitment to pressure North Korea to return to nuclear talks.

After meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping Friday, Kerry said China could not have more forcefully reiterated its commitment to a nuclear-free Korean peninsula.

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi said China would never allow chaos or war in Korea, and is serious in both words and actions.

China is North Korea's only major ally and a key source of trade and economic aid.

Pyongyang has test-fired missiles and carried out underground nuclear tests. It has resisted pressure to give up its nuclear program in return for more food and aid.

Kerry and President Xi also talked about global warming, human rights, and what the United States sees as China's efforts to assert itself in Asia by setting up an air defense zone over the East China Sea. The zone includes islands also claimed by Japan.

Kerry said he urged Beijing to take a less confrontational approach to territorial disputes. The Chinese foreign minister said China prefers a peaceful resolution, but will not hesitate to protect its sovereignty.

Kerry left Beijing Saturday afternoon and headed to Indonesia - the last stop on his Asian tour. He plans to make a major speech on climate change while in Jakarta.
XS
SM
MD
LG