The presidential office expects the second round of inter-Korean high-ranking talks to take place as planned.
 
Speaking with reporters on Sunday, presidential foreign affairs secretary Ju Chul-ki was optimistic about the talks North Korea had agreed upon over an inter-Korean luncheon prior to the closing ceremony of the Incheon Asian Games.
 
He said South Korea is preparing for the agreed talks between high-ranking officials from the two Koreas, expecting that it will be held without any hindrances.
 
Ju refuted the North’s criticism that the South tried to avoid concrete discussions during the inter-Korean military talks held on October 15. He said the South based its attendance on mutual trust and was sincere in the military talks.