Unification Ministry Chung Dong-young said that he acknowledges the importance of inter-Korean relations all the more in light of the recent events concerning North Korea's nuclear issue.

The minister recently met with representatives of local groups that were formed with the purpose of assisting the impoverished North. During the meeting, he stressed that utmost efforts will be exerted to restore relations between the two Koreas, and underscored the significance of the year 2005, which marks the 60th anniversary of Korea's liberation from the Japanese colonial rule.

On Pyongyang's request for 500,000 tons-worth of fertilizer aid, Chung said the issue will be discussed once inter-Korean talks are resumed, as such a large amount of aid requires public support and parliamentary consultation.

The minister added that although inter-Korean talks have not been all that consistent, private sector cooperation has continued to carry on toward reconciliation between South and North Korea.