In remarks at the end of the Beijing talks, Chinese State Councilor Dai Bingguo said ensuring peace and security on the Korean peninsula is "critical" and urged the parties to "calmly and properly handle the issue and avoid escalation of tension."

Speaking to reporters later, Secretary Clinton said "it is absolutely clear" that China is committed to regional stability, and it shares the U.S. goal of a denuclearized Korean peninsula. But she added that "a period of careful consideration" is necessary in order to determine the best way forward in dealing with North Korea, perhaps a sign that China is not yet ready to support U.N. Security Council action.

On the final leg of her Asian tour, Clinton will travel to Seoul on Wednesday to consult with South Korean President Lee Myung-bak. She said Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao would go there on Friday for the same purpose.