Remarks Upon Arrival in China

ASSISTANT SECRETARY HILL: No, I didn't. No meetings today.

QUESTION: Do you know when you are meeting with Mr. Kim Kye-gwan?

ASSISTANT SECRETARY HILL: We had some communication today with the DPRK, but it's from their New York office. So we're going to try to work something out at some point. We're in contact with them. I think they're looking at some of these ideas and proposals, and we'll get together with them at some point soon.

QUESTION: Do you think you could have a meeting with North Korea soon?

ASSISTANT SECRETARY HILL: Not before I get back to Washington, no.

QUESTION: Yes, but when do you think you could expect it?

ASSISTANT SECRETARY HILL: I don't know. We'll try to get it done in the next few weeks.

QUESTION: Are you satisfied with the Chinese-proposed idea?

ASSISTANT SECRETARY HILL: The Chinese have really worked very hard on this, and we work very well together with the Chinese. I think we've got some good ideas forward. The North Koreans are having a look at them, and let's see if we can finally get through this phase two in the next few weeks and get on with the more difficult task of phase three.

QUESTION: Do you believe the North Koreans are ready to talk about the Chinese idea?

ASSISTANT SECRETARY HILL: I don't know. I don't know, but I think I'll know that when I sit down with them.

Okay?

QUESTION: So did you hear anything from the DPRK why they didn't come (inaudible)?

ASSISTANT SECRETARY HILL: No, I didn't, but they did indicate that they are prepared to see us. My impression was that everything was moving too fast. They take their time.

QUESTION: Do you know what's the obstacle for them?

ASSISTANT SECRETARY HILL: We've had a lot of discussions with them on the declaration. That's been an obstacle for many weeks now. Let's see if we can get through this. We just couldn't do it this weekend.

All right. See you all later.