The North-Japan, to Agree on `Hometown Visit of Japanese Wives`

The North and Japan re-opens Red Cross conference at Beijing in China on 29th, 30th.

This is being held after the North announced re-opening of investigation of `Japanese missing people` in March last, therefore, it is the first time after being stopped in March 2000.

This talk is likely to explore the possibility of re-opening of ambassador level conference which has halted in December 2000.

The two nations will agree to re-open visit of Japanese wives to hometown those who live in the north, reported Tokyo newspaper on 25th.

Visit of Japanese wives to hometown was held three times (43 people) from 1997 to 2000.

However, it was stopped when ambassador level talks failed.

The biggest issue this time is the matter of `Japanese missing person (kidnapped people to the North).

Japan will deliver its stance“there can never be amity contact or humanistic support without solving out suspicion of kidnapping 11 people”

The North seems to say“ we will try to investigate ”on this.

The North is likely to present investigation of missing people who disappeared before 1945, support victims of the bomb and support food.

The North reported that it requested the whereabouts of 108 missing people to Japan at 2000 Red Cross conference, and it submitted 151 people`s name list additionally.

It is considered to be followed by the press of Japan with regards to kidnapping.

ksshim@donga.com