On July 21, Minister 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 issue and exchange views with NCNK members. 

Minister Xu reviewed the situation on the Korean peninsula during the last year, 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. There are profound historical, security and international reasons for its lingering. This year marks the 20th anniversary of the Six-Party Talks. The September19 Joint Statement in 2005 is the most significant outcome of the dialogue and negotiations. It reflects the biggest convergence of all parties concerned. Under the current circumstances, the way forward lies in keeping to the spirit of the September 19 Joint Statement, namely exercising restraint, rebuilding mutual trust and gathering consensus.

Xu emphasized that China has advocated a "dual-track" approach, i.e., denuclearization and transition from 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. China believes that dialogue and consultation would help resolve the security dilemma on the Peninsula in an enduring way.

Minister Xu answered questions from the NCNK members, and praised 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.