This was prompted by their patriotic decision to tide over the present difficulties lying in the way of improving the relations between the north and the south and usher in a new era of independent reunification, peace and prosperity.

The DPRK's proposal for wide-ranging dialogue and negotiations is a patriotic one for saving the destiny of the nation from a crisis.

During the past three years, we compatriots keenly realized that it is impossible to settle the issue of the relations between the north and the south by way of confrontation as it will only lead to armed clash and war.

Dialogue and negotiations are the only way for weathering the present difficulties.

The north and the south should meet and conduct negotiations to seek an effective way of terminating the confrontation and paving the way for reunification.

The most urgent job before them is to unconditionally and promptly open the talks between their authorities having real power and responsibility.

This crucial proposal reflected the firm will of the DPRK to improve the relations between the north and the south and promote the national reconciliation and unity at any cost in accordance with the idea and principle of by our nation itself.

Both the north and south should refrain from any act of provoking each other and straining the situation as required by the reality in which they greeted another decade of the 21st century and should be bold enough to eliminate all factors of fueling distrust and conflict.

Those who are concerned about the destiny and future of the nation and aspire after the peaceful reunification of the country will neither sidestep the new proposal of the DPRK nor hesitate to come out for wide-ranging dialogue and negotiations.