China welcomes improvement in ties between DPRK, ROK

China is pleased to see the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) and the Republic of Korea (ROK) agree to resume engagement, a Foreign Ministry spokesman said at a Thursday press briefing. Spokesman Hong Lei's remarks came after the DPRK proposed holding talks with the ROK on issues including the normalization of operations in the Kaesong Industrial Zone and the resumption of tourism services at Mt. Kumgang. The ROK's Ministry of Unification said in a statement that the government views the latest proposal by the DPRK in a positive light. Hong said China always supports the efforts of the DPRK and the ROK to resolve issues through dialogue and consultations. "We hope that both sides will cherish the progress that has been made and promote a turnaround in relations," he said.