Statement of Chen Jian at the Second Plenary Session of the Four Party Talks on the Korean Peninsula

Chen Jian Assistant Minister of Foreign Affairs of China, and Chairman of the Second Plenary Session
of the Four Party Talks on the Korean Peninsula Chairman's Statement 21 March 1998

The second plenary session of the four party talks was held from 16-21 March 1998 in Geneva.

We in this plenary session reaffirmed the importance of four party talks as well as its purpose of establishing a peace regime on the Korean Peninsular in order to achieve permanent peace there.

This was the first meeting in which the four party talks moved into its substantive stage. In a candid, serious and calm atmosphere, we had an in-depth exchange of views on substantive issues relating to permanent peace on the Korean Peninsular. We have clarified some of the important differences. We were not, however, able to narrow the differences sufficiently to move forward in our work at this time.

At the same time, we also had lengthy discussion on whether sub-committees should be established to advance the talks. We agreed that it is necessary to set up sub-committees.

The four party talks is inherently a long and difficult process. It is important that we have begun it and intend to continue. The fact that we are here together today demonstrates the commitment of all the parties to our common search for a permanent peace. The four parties will work on the timing of the third plenary session through proper channels.

All four delegations want to express their thanks to the Swiss Government for its kind and thoughtful assistance to the current session.

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