Seoul Seeking Better Inter-Korean, US-DPRK Ties

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Last updated at: (Beijing Time) Monday, January 14, 2002

Seoul Seeking Better Inter-Korean, US-DPRK Ties

South Korean President Kim Dae-jung Monday said his government will try its utmost this year to implement the agreements signed by Seoul and Pyongyang to develop inter-Korean ties.

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South Korean President Kim Dae-jung Monday said his government will try its utmost this year to implement the agreements signed by Seoul and Pyongyang to develop inter-Korean ties.

The inter-Korean agreements involved the connection of the inter-Korean railway line, the construction of an industrial complex in Kaesong of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK),opening land route tour to Mount Kumgang, separated family reunions,and the easing of military tension, Kim said at a new year press conference.

The inter-Korean railway project will provide significant momentum for national development as it will enable direct access to the vast Chinese market and connect the Eurasian continent with the Pacific Ocean, he said.

When asked about the possibility of DPRK leader Kim Jong Il's return visit to Seoul, Kim said "although the document (South and North Korea's June 2000 Joint Declaration ) said he would visit Seoul at a proper time, I cannot predict it clearly. Let's wait and see."

On Washington-Pyongyang relations, the South Korean president said the development of U.S.-DPRK relations is closely correlated with that of inter-Korean relations.

Kim said the Bush administration has expressed its desire to resume talks with the DPRK at any time and in any place the DPRK and Pyongyang also voiced its willingness to restore U.S.-DPRK talks.

However, he pointed out that the two sides have yet to find an opportunity for dialogue due to a lack of mutual trust.

"It is desirable for the United States to seek dialogue, allowing the North to save face. I will convey such thoughts during a meeting with President Bush next month," said the South Korea President.

Since last March, the DPRK-U.S. ties have worsened due to tough words made by President Bush against DPRK leader Kim Jong Il.