Annan praises 'spirit of mutual respect' at Korean nuclear talks

United Nations Secretary-General Kofi Annan today praised the "spirit of mutual respect" achieved at the fourth round of the six-party talks for the denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula, which took place in Beijing.

He also found it encouraging that the participants were able to increase understanding and broaden areas of consensus, according to a statement delivered by a spokesman at the noon press briefing in New York.

"The Secretary-General urges the Governments concerned to use the time before the round is resumed in three weeks to identify ways to reconcile their needs and concerns," the spokesman said.

According to the statement, Mr. Annan extended special praise to China for "its dedication and tireless efforts to facilitate progress" as the host of the talks.