Clinton Still Pondering Possible Trip to Pyongyang

President Bill Clinton December 19 expressed hope to reach a deal on the missile issue with the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK), saying that he is still considering a trip to the country for that goal.

"We may have a chance to put an end to it (the DPRK missile program). If we can, I think we should," Clinton said to reporters before meeting with President-elect George W. Bush in the Oval Office at the White House.

"This is something we want to consult with the president-elect and his team about," he added.

Clinton has expressed keen interest in becoming the first US president to visit Pyongyang since Vice Marshal Cho Myong Rok, the special envoy of DPRK leader Kim Jong Il, paid a historic visit to Washington on November 9-12.

US officials reportedly said that Clinton may decide next week whether or not to travel to Pyongyang before leaving office on January 20.

Before a final decision on the trip is made, they said, US and DPRK officials are expected to hold another round of talks to see if an agreement on the missile issue was within reach.

People's Daily Online --- http://english.peopledaily.com.cn/