Bush says China holds the key to N Korea diplomacy

The statement underscored the huge task ahead for the talks, if they proceed.

North Korea repeatedly has accused the US of planning to attack it after the Iraq war, a charge denied by Washington. The North has often tried to drive a wedge between South Korea and its chief ally, the US.

And though North Korea has never admitted or denied having nuclear bombs, it has closely guarded what it sees as its right to develop them.