On July 21, China's Minister at the Chinese Embassy to the U.S. Xu Xueyuan was invited to attend the 2023 Annual Meeting of the U.S. National Committee on North Korea (NCNK) to elaborate on China's views and propositions on the Korean Peninsula and exchange views with NCNK members on U.S.-DPRK relations.

Minister Xu reviewed the situation on the Korean Peninsula during the last year and outlined China's efforts to cool down the situation and bring it back to the track of political settlement. Xu pointed out that the Korean Peninsula issue is essentially a security issue and a legacy of the Cold War.

This year marks the 20th anniversary of the Six-Party Talks. The September 19 Joint Statement in 2005 is the most significant outcome of the dialogue and negotiations, she said. It reflects the biggest convergence of all parties concerned. Under the current circumstances, the way forward lies in keeping with the spirit of the September 19 Joint Statement, namely exercising restraint, rebuilding mutual trust and gathering consensus, Xu added.

Xu emphasized that China has advocated a "dual-track" approach, i.e., denuclearization and transition from an armistice to a peace mechanism that takes into account everyone's legitimate security concerns in a balanced manner. The Chinese side hopes that all parties can fully recognize the value of the approach and rebuild consensus, she said. China believes that dialogue and consultation would help resolve the security dilemma on the Peninsula in an enduring way, Xu added.

Xu also answered questions from NCNK members and praised the NCNK's long-term commitment to supporting and promoting U.S.-DPRK contacts and exchanges. She encouraged the NCNK to exert influence, actively offer advice and suggestions, and encourage the U.S. government to strengthen resolve and play a constructive role in promoting the political settlement of the Korean Peninsula issue.

The meeting brought together 80 guests and NCNK members.