[ASEM] Seoul Declaration for Peace on the Korean Peninsula

1 At the Third Asia-Europe Meeting (ASEM 3) in Seoul, Leaders discussed the situation on the Korean Peninsula in the context of encouraging developments in relations between the Republic of Korea (ROK) and the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK). They shared the view that peace and stability on the Korean Peninsula were closely linked to those both of the Asia-Pacific region and of the world as a whole.

2. Recalling previous attempts by the ROK and the DPRK to reduce tensions on the Peninsula and improve inter-Korean relations, Leaders warmly welcomed the inter-Korean Summit (Pyongyang, 13-15 June 2000) and congratulated President Kim Dae-jung and National Defense Commission Chairman Kim Jong-il for their courage and vision in taking this historic step.

3. Leaders also applauded the steps both sides have already taken in implementing the South-North Joint Declaration including humanitarian issues, notably family reunions, economic cooperation and dialogue on military issues, with the aim of lasting peace and eventual reunification on the Korean Peninsula. They looked forward to further progress in this regard.

4. Recognising the importance of continued dialogue in the resolution of inter-Korean issues, Leaders renewed their support for the process of rapprochement and cooperation under way between the ROK and the DPRK, and encouraged both sides to continue building on the success of the Summit for the sake of peace and security in the region. In this context, they welcomed the recent positive developments in relations between the DPRK and the United States.

5. In pursuit of this objective, they affirmed ASEM partners¡¯ willingness to contribute to measures to build confidence and to enhance peace and security on the Korean Peninsula and in the region. They confirmed their support for the Korean Peninsula Energy Development Organisation. Leaders also underlined the importance of strengthening efforts to improve relations between ASEM, its individual partners and the DPRK through dialogue, people-to-people exchanges, economic links, as well as through DPRK participation in multilateral dialogue.