China: The new Chinese Premier, Mr Wen Jiabao, avoided outright condemnation of President Bush's ultimatum in his first press conference wrapping up a meeting of the National People's Congress which ushered in a younger leadership for China.
"The Iraqi situation is like an arrow in the bow in the verge of flight," said Mr Wen, who peppered his remarks during the two-hour press conference with economic slogans, statistics and ancient poetry.
"However, as long as there is a glimpse of hope, we will not give up our efforts for a political and peaceful solution. Every effort should be made to avoid war," he said, speaking minutes after President Bush's speech.
"China stands for a peaceful solution of the Iraq issue within the framework of the United Nations through political means. Every effort should be made to avoid war," he said. China had sided with Russia, Germany and France in rejecting a second resolution.
Mr Jiabao also struck a softer tone towards Taiwan, avoiding the now customary military threats as he introduced himself and his new cabinet to the nation.
The new Communist Party chief, Mr Hu Jintao, who formally took over as head of state on Saturday, also gave a five-minute speech saying he was taking over "in a capriciously changing international situation and a time when the tasks of building the country are heavy." Mr Hu pledged to give "full scope to democracy, do everything according to law" and closed the ritual two-week conclave by saying that "only socialism can save China." Both men lavished praise on their predecessors but it remained clear that while Mr Zhu Rongji is genuinely retiring, Mr Jiang Zemin will remain paramount leader.
Despite their new titles, it is far from clear what authority the new ministers will have although their seniors are retreating from the front line.
China now has a new Foreign Minister, Mr Li Zhaoxing, a former ambassador to Washington, but he will continuing working under the direction of his predecessor Mr Tang Jiaxuan, who becomes a state councillor and who continues to be under the thumb of veteran foreign policy leader Mr Qian Qichen.
Mr Wen also took pains to stress the continuity of policies over the next five years.
"Our predecessors have already laid a very good foundation for us. We still face a lot of difficulties and problems ahead," said Mr Wen, who outlined no new initiatives but recited numbered points. He pledged more support for private businesses, faster reform of the banking sector and more money for the countryside, laid-off workers and a fiscal stimulus programme to create more jobs.
Mr Wen appeared to rule out any political reforms but vowed to crack down on corruption.
When asked about the 1989 Tiananmen uprising, and whether he would released deposed party leader Mr Zhao Ziyang, who is still under house arrest, he strongly defended the suppression, saying it had brought China prosperity and stability.
Mr Wen served Mr Zhao as an aide and was photographed accompanying him on his last tearful visit to Tiananmen Square.