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U.S., DPRK Vow to Build New Relationship
The United States and the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) Thursday committed themselves to make every effort in the future to build a new relationship free from past enmity.
"Recognizing the changed circumstances on the Korean Peninsula created by the historic inter-Korean summit, the United States and DPRK have decided to take steps to fundamentally improve their bilateral relations in the interests of enhancing peace and security in the Asia-Pacific region," a U.S.-DPRK joint communique said.
The document was issued at the end of a four-day visit by Vice Marshal Cho Myong Rok, special envoy of DPRK leader Kim Jong Il.
According to the communique, the two sides agreed there are a variety of means, including Four Party talks, to reduce tension on the Korean Peninsula and formally end the Korean War by replacing the 1953 Armistice Agreement with permanent peace arrangements.
As a crucial first step to undertake a new direction in their relations, the two sides stated that neither government would have hostile intent toward the other.
They agreed to work to remove mistrust, build mutual confidence, and maintain an atmosphere in which they can deal constructively with issues of central concern.
In this regard, the two sides reaffirmed that their relations should be based on the principles of respect for each other's sovereignty and non-interference in each other's internal affairs, and noted the value of regular diplomatic contacts, bilaterally and in broader fora.
On the missile issue, both sides agreed that resolution of the issue would make an essential contribution to a fundamentally improved relationship between them and to peace and security in the Asian-Pacific region.
"The DPRK informed the U.S. that it will not launch long-range missiles of any kind while talks on the missile issue continue," the communique said.
The document said the two sides also agreed to work together to develop mutually beneficial economic cooperation and exchanges.
It said Secretary of State Madeleine Albright will visit the DPRK in the near future to meet DPRK leader Kim Jong Il and to prepare for a possible visit by President Bill Clinton.
Cho, who is also first vice chairman of the DPRK National Defense Commission, was the highest ranking official ever from the DPRK to visit Washington.
During his stay here, he held talks with Clinton, Albright and Defense Secretary William Cohen.
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