The British government on Tuesday expressed unwavering support for inter-Korean dialogue, welcoming the recent positive developments in South-North relations.

British Foreign Minister Robin Cook made the remarks in talks with a North Korean foreign ministry delegation led by Counselor Ri Yong-ho.

Mr. Cook hoped for sustained development in British-North Korean ties via further exchanges in various areas such as politics, economy, trade and culture.

The talks were the first of the kind since the two countries formed diplomatic relations last December.

During the meetings, Cook raised a variety of issues such as the North's human rights situation and nuclear non-proliferation.

Diplomatic sources here said the four-member delegation attended a seminar hosted by a think tank affiliated with the British foreign ministry from Feb. 12-16.