President Roh Moo-hyun has stressed the need for the two Koreas to seek mutual prosperity through the establishment of a joint economic community.

Speaking to senior North Korean officials at a dinner he hosted Wednesday in Pyongyang, Mr. Roh said that economic cooperation leads to peace and, in turn, a strong commitment to peace promotes economic cooperation.

The president expressed regret that the summit ended so soon, but said that he was able to confirm North Korean leader Kim Jong-il’s strong determination to seek peace in the region through their summit sessions.

He added that the high-level talks also provided an opportunity for the two Koreas to better understand one another.

In response, North Korea’s parliamentary leader Kim Yong-nam noted Mr. Roh's unprecedented walk across the military demarcation line on his way to Pyongyang, expressing his hope that the president will continue to “walk” for the benefit of the Korean people.

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