China's special envoy for the DPRK, Kong Xuanyou, says China welcomes the dialogue between the two countries, even if the main focus has currently been the Winter Games.

KONG XUANYOU CHINESE VICE FOREIGN MINISTER "Denuclearization of the peninsula and peace and stability of this region is our goal and we aim to achieve it through negotiation and dialogue. This has been a commitment all along. You may have noticed, after this New Year, there are some positive developments on the peninsula. The two sides have re-engaged with each other. They started to talk with each other. Though currently the talks are about the Winter Olympics. However, I believe under the current circumstances, such a resumption of engagement between South Korea and the DPRK will help to ease tensions on the peninsula. Therefore, China welcomes such a resumption of engagement and dialogue. And this has also been welcomed by the international community. We hope the two sides can use this opportunity to enhance their mutual understanding and nurture further trust in order to lay the groundwork for the eventual peace on the peninsula. This can play a constructive and positive role in peace and stability of the peninsula."