On the evening of April 11, 2003, Foreign Minister Li Zhaoxing talked with US Secretary of State Colin Powell on phone. Li and Powell had an in-depth discussion about bilateral ties, the Iraq situation and post-war construction, and exchanged views on a peaceful solution to the nuclear issue in the Democratic People's Republic of Korea through dialogue.

The two sides agreed that in view of the rapidly-changing international situation, it is important for the two nations to strengthen communication and coordination.