国内英语新闻:1st LD: China cherishes traditional friendship with DPRK: FM

BEIJING, March 8 (Xinhua) -- China cherishes its traditional friendship with the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) and will seek the normal development of the China-DPRK relations, Foreign Minister Wang Yi said Sunday.

"China and DPRK are friendly neighbors. Chinese people emphasize good faith and value friendship. China cherishes its traditional friendship with the DPRK and will seek the normal development of our relations," Wang made the remarks at a press conference on the sidelines of the annual parliamentary session.

"The China-DPRK relationship has a strong foundation. It should not and will not be affected by temporary events," he said.

As to when the two countries' leaders wil meet, Wang said "it will have to suit the schedules of both sides."