President Lee Myung-bak says he positively assesses the frequent visits being made to China by North Korean leader Kim Jong-il.

Lee made the comment in a meeting Tuesday to discuss Kim’s five-day visit to China that started last Thursday.

Lee said during the meeting that Kim’s trips should have a positive impact on the North Korean economy because they provide opportunities for the North Korean leader to witness China’s economic development. Lee said he also positively evaluates China’s role in Kim’s visits.

Presidential spokeswoman Kim Hee-jung said China has delivered to Seoul details of Kim's visit to China through South Korea’s ambassador to China, Yu Woo-ik.

She stressed that South Korea's basic stance remains the same on the sinking of South Korea’s “Cheonan” naval vessel. In short, the North must demonstrate a responsible stance and show a real commitment to denuclearization. She said such moves are necessary to improve inter-Korean relations and to resume the six-party talks.