PM urges N. Korea to give up nukes, missiles

    Prime Minister Hwang Kyo-ahn said Monday North Korea must end its development of nukes and missiles that pose threats to international peace, adding South Korea will join forces with other countries to induce Pyongyang to end such provocations.

   He made the call in Thailand at the gathering of the Asia Cooperation Dialogue (ACD), a 34-member body created in June 2002 to promote Asian exchanges. Hwang also said Pyongyang must instead put more effort into improving the livelihood of North Koreans.

   "North Korea conducted two nuclear tests and fired 22 ballistic missiles this year, continuing its provocations," Hwang said, adding peace is vital for the region's sustainable and future-oriented development.

   "Through full-fledged sanctions and pressure against the North, South Korea is working closely with the international community to make Pyongyang give up its nukes," Hwang added.

   The premier added South Korea also plans to provide helping hands to developing countries in Asia to assist them in fostering greater capabilities in science and technologies that are critical for sustainable growth.

   During his visit, Hwang also met counterparts from Cambodia, Myanmar and Kuwait to exchange ideas on expanding ties.

   Hwang told Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen that South Korea will provide more development aids to the country, while requesting the Southeast Asian nation to provide necessary help to local firms operating there.

   The prime minister also asked Kuwait's emir, Sheikh Sabah Al Ahmad Al Sabah, to provide business support to South Korean firms trying to tap into the construction sector of the Middle East market.

   The emir added the country will not engage in exchanges with North Korea, backing South Korea's stance towards Pyongyang. (Yonhap)