President Roh Moo-hyun praised the late Hyundai executive Chung Mong-hun Monday for his contributions to inter-Korean cooperation and reassured the nation the government will make utmost efforts to maintain ongoing projects with North Korea.

Roh was quoted as saying that Chairman Chung contributed greatly to the Mount Geumgang tourism business, construction of the Kaesong industrial complex in North Korea and other South-North economic cooperation.

The president also expressed his condolences and regret concerning the tycoon's death, pledging the government will make active efforts so inter-Korean economic cooperation projects will proceed as intended by the late Chung.