South and North Korea have opened full-fledged inter-Korean economic cooperation talks in Pyongyang.

Deputy Finance Minister Kim Kwang-lim, South Korea's chief delegate to the talks, delivered a key note speech Thursday, calling on North Korea to guarantee a long-term stay for South Korean senior technicians in the North.

In addition, South Korea has proposed setting up an inter-Korean economic liaison office at the Gaesong Industrial Complex at the earliest date possible.

Meanwhile, North Korea pledged to step up efforts to enhance economic cooperation with the South.

The focus of the talks' agenda is on three major joint economic projects including the re-linking of cross border railways and roads, the construction of the Gaesong Industrial Complex and a tour program to the North's scenic resort of Mount Geumgang.