"The Korean peninsular nuclear issue now stands at the crossroad and what course to follow is directly related to the peace and stability in east Asia and the world at large," Wen told visiting US Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice.

"There is no other choice but diplomacy and dialogue," Wen said.

Rice's visit came amid international efforts to ease the tension arising from the DPRK nuclear test on Oct. 9.

China is the third leg of Rice's four-nation tour, which has taken her to Japan and the Republic of Korea. She is also scheduled to visit Russia following her China trip.