The leader of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea, Kim Jong-il, has paid an unofficial visit to China. He met with top Chinese leaders, and discussed bilateral ties and the nuclear issue on the Korean Peninsula.

President Hu Jintao held talks with Kim Jong-il, who started his visit on Monday.

Hu Jintao expressed a warm welcome on behalf of the Communist Party of China, the Chinese government and people.

He also expressed gratitude for the condolences from the DPRK to earthquake-hit Yushu in northwest China, as well as the DPRK's active participation in the Shanghai World Expo.

Hu called the traditional friendship between China and the DPRK the common treasures of the two governments, parties and peoples. He said it's the historical responsibility of the two sides to push forward their friendship with the progress of the times and from generation to generation.

The Chinese president spoke of continuous achievements in Sino-DPRK relations in recent years. Last year the two countries celebrated the 60th anniversary of diplomatic ties.

Hu Jintao noted that strengthening their friendly and cooperative relations is the consistent policy of China

He proposed maintaining high-level contacts, reinforcing strategic coordination, deepening trade cooperation, increasing personnel exchanges, and strengthening coordination in international and regional issues.

Kim Jong-Il said he fully agrees.

He said the traditional DPRK-China friendship has stood tests of the times, and will not change due to the change of time and of generations.

The DPRK leader praised the joint efforts that enabled a sound momentum of development in friendly exchanges and cooperation.

He said the DPRK welcomes Chinese enterprises to invest in the country.

The two leaders said that the peace, stability, prosperity on the Korean Peninsula is in line with common interests of the two countries and Northeast Asia as a whole.

The two sides agree to work together towards the denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula, in accordance with the September 2005 joint statement.

The two leaders called on the participants in the six-party talks to demonstrate sincerity and make positive efforts for pushing the talks forwards.

Kim Jong-il said Pyongyang will work with Beijing to create favorable conditions for restarting the six-party talks.

He also expressed appreciation for China's efforts and contributions.

During Kim's visit, Hu Jintao accompanied him on a visit to a bio-company in Beijing.

Kim said he gained new understanding of China's development and progress, especially in harmonious development and innovation. His last visit to China was four years ago.

Top legislator Wu Bangguo and Premier Wen Jiabao also met with Kim.

The DPRK entourage included vice chairman of the National Defense Commission, Kim Yong Chun, and senior cabinet and foreign ministry officials.