Unification Minister Lee Jong-seok says the government will seek to make a quantum leap in progress in inter-Korean relations and help resolve North Korea's nuclear standoff.

In a congratulatory speech at a forum inaugurating a new unification institute at Seoul National University Thursday, Lee said Seoul will develop inter-Korean ties until the two sides enjoy peace and co-existence based on the achievements over the past six years.

He also said the government will do its utmost to unravel the difficult situation on the Korean Peninsula, hinting at the government's intent to resolve the nuclear standoff by enhancing inter-Korean relations.