Secretary-General Welcomes Accord on Talks between Democratic People’s Republic

of Korea, Republic of Korea

The following statement was issued today by the Spokesperson for UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon:

The Secretary-General welcomes the announcement by the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea and the Republic of Korea on their agreement to hold talks.  This is an encouraging development towards reducing tensions and promoting peace and stability on the Korean peninsula.

As the Secretary-General has consistently stated, any differences should be resolved peacefully through dialogue.  The Secretary-General is hopeful it is the beginning of a process of trust-building between the parties.  He encourages them to build on this opportunity and to generate momentum for further progress.

As Secretary-General, he will spare no effort to support inter-Korean reconciliation.

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For information media • not an official record