On March 4th, Vice Foreign Minister Wang Yi said in an interview that the second round of the six-party talks had achieved positive progress in both the discussion of substantive issues and the regularization of the talks, which derived from the concerted efforts of the six parties. He indicated that differences did remain, with some even being sharp, but the six parties wished to narrow them gradually in future talks. Wang Yi said that the next steps required concerted efforts of all the parties in three aspects.

First, the parties should carefully analyze and digest important views and possible solutions put forward during the talks with regard to substantive issues in a bid to explore and induce positive elements from them.

Second, a working group must be set up as early as possible so as to launch preparations for the third round of six-party talks. As the host country, China will in due time propose concrete suggestions on the constitution and functions of the working group as well as the issues to be discussed. It is hoped that the other parties can offer support for China in this regard.

Third, the parties are expected to continue to maintain restraint and refrain from provocative speeches and actions that may escalate conflicts or tensions in order to create a relaxing and peaceful environment for the talks.