The Unification Ministry will push for five new inter-Korean economic projects in agriculture, fisheries, forestry, mining and the light industry.

Under its plan for the year presented to President Roh Moo-hyun Tuesday, the ministry will seek reciprocal projects utilizing South Korea's capital and technology with North Korea's resources and labor.

The projects are expected to help alleviate the North's hobbling economy and create new markets for the South.

With the law on improving inter-Korean relations being passed late last year, the ministry will also devise a comprehensive plan on better ties between next year and 2011 and set mid- and long-term strategies for peace and progress.