China, South Korea and Japan yesterday initiated the idea of the resumption of the six-party talks while meeting with ASEAN foreign ministers in Phnom Penh, the regional body’s secretary-general Surin Pitsuwan said.

“On the Korean Peninsular, South Korea talked about it, China talked about it and Japan talked about it. All of them are hoping that they can help to contribute the revival of the six-party talks,” Pitsuwan said.

“I expect some development that would be helpful contributing to the coming down of the tension on the peninsular.”

Six-party talks between China, South Korea, Japan, South Korea, North Korea, Russia and the US aimed at calming tensions between the neighbours and ending the North’s nuclear ambitions have stalled since 2009.

North Korean Foreign Minister Pak Ui Chun will attend the Asean Regional Forum in Phnom Penh where the issue of the Korean Peninsular will likely be raised.

Cambodia currently holds the chairmanship of ASEAN and Foreign Minister Hor Namhong said he had good cooperation with North Korea after he visited the country in June.

A statement from ASEAN foreign ministers released yesterday urged concerned parties not to conduct any provocation and to comply with relevant UN Security Council obligations.

To contact the reporter on this story: Cheang Sokha at [email protected]