President Lee Myung-bak says he plans to announce within the year the target level of greenhouse gas emissions Seoul hopes to achieve by 2020.

Lee made the remarks on Friday during the G8 summit on climate change held in L’Aquila, Italy.

He said that despite the difficulties that might be faced, South Korea will join global efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

Noting that South Korea has been designated as a nation expected to lead the development of “smart grids,” Lee said he will announce by November concrete methods Seoul will pursue as part of the international effort to cut greenhouse gas emissions.

Lee also urged efforts by leaders of the world’s top economies to work together for the successful conclusion of the Doha Round of negotiations.