S Korean president proposes inter-Korean talks on denuclearization, arms reduction

by Na, Haejung

SEOUL, Aug. 15 (Xinhua) -- South Korean President Lee Myung-bakon Saturday urged the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) to begin talks on ways to reduce arms, together with denuclearization on the Korean Peninsula, in a bid to bring peace in the region.

South Korean President Lee Myung-bak delivers a speech during a ceremony to celebrate Korean Liberation Day from Japanese colonial rule in 1945, in Seoul, South Korea, Saturday, Aug. 15, 2009.(Xinhua/Reuters photo)

PRESIDENT LEE'S LIBERATION DAY SPEECH

In his speech to celebrate the nation's 64th Liberation Day, President Lee, in addition to discussing other domestic issues, highlighted the need for talks between the two Koreas.

"I am sincerely looking forward to beginning open-minded dialogue with North Korea (the DPRK) on how it can determine to abandon its nuclear program," Lee said.

"Once the DPRK shows its determination, the South Korean government will push for a new picture to bring peace on the Korean Peninsula," Lee added, adding that the government has in mind an international cooperation program to promote DPRK citizens' quality of life.

The president elaborated his plan by mentioning launching high-level talks to establish an inter-Korean economic community and promoting a project on economic, educational, fiscal, infrastructure, ways-of-living development.

President Lee also said it is necessary to discuss over reducing the two sides' arms, which he said would lead to a sharp decrease in the two nations' military budgets and, thus, would be helpful to both economies.

"I make it clear that our government is ready to discuss and work with North Korea over any issue between the two Koreas at anytime and at any level," he said.