China's "basic position remains unchanged" on U.S. mention of "North Korea nuclear power"

While U.S. Defense Secretary nominee Pete Hegseth referred to North Korea as a "nuclear power," China has reaffirmed only its fundamental position on the North Korean nuclear issue.

Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Guo Jhaqun replied that China's basic position on the Korean Peninsula issue remains unchanged when questions are asked at a regular briefing.

"China has always thought that the protection of peace and stability on the peninsula and the drive to resolve the peninsula's problems politically are in the common interests of each party," he said, adding, "I hope each party will make a joint effort to do this."