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Visiting Japanese Prime Minister Junichiro Koizumi said in New York Tuesday that China's development does not threaten the rest of the world.
"Some see the economic development of China as a threat. I do not," he said at a luncheon talk at the Council on Foreign Relations in New York.
With its accession to the World Trade Organization, China will be plying a larger role in the international community, he said, adding that people need to encourage and support China's efforts "so that it becomes a constructive member of the international community".
On other Asia-Pacific issues, the Prime Minister touched upon his proposed visit to the Democratic People's Republic of Korea.
Koizumi said he sees an opportunity to improve relations with Pyongyang as DPRK "has been showing positive attitudes" toward dialogue with Japan, the United States and the Republic of Korea.
He hoped that his visit and meeting with Secretary General Kim Jong Il will be an important step toward the resolution of the remaining issues between the two countries and the easing of tension on the Korean Peninsula.
Koizumi was here to attend the 57th session of the United Nations General Assembly and meet with US President George W. Bush this week.
( September 11, 2002)
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