Kim calls for livelihood stabilization

President Kim Dae-Jung stressed Wednesday that even though hikes in public utility rates are unavoidable due to soaring oil prices, the ministries concerned should work out measures to minimize the financial burden on people in the low-income bracket.

Presiding over a cabinet meeting, the President said that unless the livelihood of low-income earners is stabilized and enhanced, economic development will face difficulties.

Noting that expenditures on industrial investment and the entertainment industry need to be saved rather than those on electric and water rates, Kim directed related ministries to launch a pan-national oil-saving campaign.

Meanwhile, the President asserted that the Asia-Europe Meeting (ASEM) slated to open in Seoul late this month is the largest-ever conference to be held in the country, asking the ministries to successfully stage the conference in order to upgrade the nation's standing.