North Korean leader Kim Jong-il reportedly said Friday that his country is working to denuclearize the Korean Peninsula and that he does not want tension on the peninsula.

China's Xinhua News said Kim met with Chinese party official Wang Jiarui in Pyongyang Friday who delivered a letter from Chinese President Hu Jintao. Kim reportedly said that North Korea wants peace with each party of the six-way nuclear dialogue.

Since speculation rose that Kim was struck by a cerebrovascular disease in August, this is the first time he has met with a foreign guest. At the meeting held at the state guest house, the two shook hands and the Chinese official delivered greetings and a letter from the Chinese president.

Ten pictures shot by North Korean media and Xinhua news were also disclosed which confirmed that Kim is healthy enough to rule the country.

The meeting taking place on the heels of U.S. President Barack Obama's inauguration Tuesday could be regarded as a message to Washington.