China's Li urges North Korea to build on US dialogue

BEIJING (Reuters) - China wants North Korea to deepen talks with South Korea and the United States in the hope of soon restarting nuclear negotiations, the visiting Chinese vice premier told his North Korean counterpart, state media reported on Monday.

Chinese Vice Premier Li Keqiang, however, also told the North's Premier Choe Yong-rim that Beijing would stay a firm ally of Pyongyang, which is contending with food shortages, international isolation and ensuring a smooth succession.