Statement attributable to the Spokesman for the Secretary-General on Korean developments

The Secretary-General is very encouraged by reports indicating a good prospect of early talks with the participation of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea, the United States, as well as China, Japan, Republic of Korea and Russian Federation. This format should enable its participants to address multilateral and bilateral issues of concern to them. The Secretary-General commends the recent efforts by the Government of China, as well as other countries, in overcoming the current impasse. He will continue to support this diplomatic approach.