Unification Minister Chung Dong-young says the six-way nuclear talks can resume if concerned parties refrain from provoking North Korea, citing the "sensitive and crucial" time.

In the first unification advisory conference Thursday, Chung explained the outcome of his recent visit to Washington, where he conveyed the North's intent to improve U.S. ties and its stance on the nuclear standoff.

Twenty-two officials including former Unification Minister Lee Hong-gu attended the conference, which focused on recent inter-Korean issues and future policy on the North.

Chung said he urged American officials in Washington last week to capitalize on the current momentum, and also briefed Vice President Dick Cheney on his recent talks with North Korean leader Kim Jong-il.

The prospect of the crisis' resolution brightened after Kim said his government could return to dialogue in July in return for adequate U.S. respect.

Seoul has since asked Washington to soften its harsh rhetoric towards the North to help resume the talks.