The statement said that the NDC of the DPRK sent an important and principled proposal for mending the north-south ties to the south Korean authorities on January 16.

It went on:

The DPRK's proposal is a historic initiative for reducing tension, removing the danger of a war and improving the north-south relations on the Korean Peninsula.

The proposal reflects the appeal made by Marshal Kim Jong Un in his New Year Address, in which he called upon the south Korean authorities to stop the reckless act of escalating confrontation with compatriots and the campaign to eliminate the "followers of the north."

In case the south Korean authorities positively respond to the just and sincere proposal, all the problems arising in the inter-Korean relations including the reunion of the separated families and their relatives will be solved.

We hope for the south Korean authorities' positive response to the crucial proposal of the NDC of the DPRK.

The above-said proposal is a measure of epochal significance in achieving the independent and peaceful reunification of Korea.