US advised to consult with allies on NMD: gov`t

The government recommended Friday that the United States fully consult with its allies and other nations on its controversial proposal to set up a national missile defense (NMD) system, saying such talks were the best way to promote international peace and security.

Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade Lee Joung-Binn made the remarks in a press conference at the Central Government Building in downtown Seoul. His statement was the first clarification of Seoul`s official stance on the NMD after Seoul signed a joint communique with Russia urging conformity to a 1972 nuclear weapons treaty.

The security situation in the world today is different from that during the Cold War and requires a new approach, Lee said, adding that he was confident that U.S. President George Bush had the leadership ability to pursue and develop a fresh approach. Lee`s remarks were interpreted as an expression of Seoul`s concern that the NMD might undermine stability and peace in Korea and Northeast Asia

Washington has yet to unveil its own official position on the NMD or ask for Korea`s stance, the foreign minister said, but it would be in the interests of the people and concerned countries to establish their positions to avoid unnecessary friction on the issue.

He said the protests from other countries seem to reflect widespread uncertainty on the sensitive question of the NMD.

Boo Hyung-Kwon bookum90@donga.com