Kim, Putin to deal with NK leader`s visit, economic cooperation Tuesday

President Kim Dae-Jung will discuss with Russian President Vladimir Putin matters of mutual concern such as the situation on the Korean peninsula and in Northeast Asia and ways of promoting bilateral economic cooperation during their summit on Tuesday. The two presidents are expected to hold far-reaching discussions on North Korean leader Kim Jong-Il`s forthcoming visit to Seoul and ways of promoting ``triangular`` economic cooperation among South and North Korea and Russia. The two leaders` economic discussions will be highlighted by plans to link the Trans-Korean Railway (TKR) with the Trans-Siberian Railway (TSR), according to government sources Monday. The two presidents will hold a joint press conference at the end of their summit talks.

Putin arrived in Seoul Monday night for a three-day stay. He will visit the National Cemetery to pay homage at a memorial there prior to his summit with Kim and will later attend a luncheon hosted by the heads of the nation`s five major economic organizations. After the summit, the Russian leader will participate in a state banquet hosted by President Kim at Cheong Wa Dae. On Wednesday, Putin will attend a luncheon hosted by Prime Minister Lee Han-dong, deliver a speech at the National Assembly and meet with Lee Hoi-chang, president of the opposition Grand National Party (GNP), before leaving Seoul.

Yun Seung-Mo ysmo@donga.com