China believes it is necessary for the UN Security Council to respond to the latest nuclear test by the Democratic People's Republic of Korea. Hua Chunying, spokesperson for China's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, says the nuclear issue on the Korean Peninsula should be back on track to a peaceful settlement.

"It is necessary for the UN Security Council to give a further response to the DPRK's nuclear test. The response should be well directed at the DPRK's nuclear activity, conducive to the resolution of the nuclear issue on the Korean Peninsula, and safeguarding peace and stability. Sanctions are not the ultimate end and neither is it a sole means. The nuclear issue on the Korea Peninsula should be back on track to a peaceful settlement through dialogues and consultations as soon as possible," said Hua Chunying.