BEIJING, Sept. 7 (Xinhua) -- China and the United States have agreed to continue to strive for the early resumption of the six-party talks.

    Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesman Qin Gang made the remarks at a regular press conference on Thursday afternoon.

    "China still considers the six-party talks an effective mechanism for resolving the Korean Peninsula nuclear issue," said Qin, adding that China will keep in close contact with other parties and strive for a nuclear-free Korean Peninsula.

    He said Chinese Vice Foreign Minister Wu Dawei and other Chinese senior officials met with visiting U.S. Assistant Secretary of State Christopher, who arrived in Beijing on the afternoon on Sept. 5, and discussed bilateral relations and the issues of common concern.

    Qin noted that China insists on realizing the goal through dialogue and consultation in a peaceful manner and does not support sanctions which may have a negative effect.

    Qin urged all related parties to create favorable conditions for an early resumption of the talks.

    The six-party talks, involving China, the Democratic Republic of Korea (DPRK), the United States, the Republic of Korea, Russia and Japan, have been stalled since the last round in Beijing last November.

    The last round of talks ended up with a Chairman's Statement, in which the parties concerned agreed to resume the talks as soon as possible.

    "China hopes all related parties will keep restraint and calm and take a constructive attitude in this difficult situation." Qin said. Enditem