President Focuses on Re-establishing Economic and Social Paths

President Roh Moo-hyun decided to focus on reviving the national economy as he celebrates his 100th day in office on June 4.

President Roh said at a meeting with secretaries and assistants on May 26: “We will have to concentrate on economic problems especially for those in the middle and lower-income brackets. There should be rigid principles against collective selfishness and illegal demonstrations.”

President Roh decided to hold discussions with major conglomerates` CEOs at Cheong Wa Dae on various issues including ways to eliminate unnecessary regulations that obstruct economic development. The government including the Ministry of Finance and Economy will also plan to announce economy-stabilizing measures for those in the middle and lower-income brackets on May 30, complying with the President`s order.

President Roh said: “We should go step by step to correct related systems recognizing that the foremost consideration should be on achieving a participatory government. We should not be hampered by the currently negative atmosphere. I would like to urge all of you to work hard at your jobs with strong determination and confidence”, reported Cheong Wa Dae Representative Yoon Tae-young.

President Roh also added comments on the current evaluation made by the press over the nation`s management. “It is lamentable for the press to impose harsh criticism on the administration, but I am always willing to accept criticism if it is reasonable,” he said.

“President Roh views the relationship between labor and business management as a major issues. He reiterated that he would put more emphasis on logic and principle regarding illegal demonstrations to establish order in society,” said National Management Director Lee Kwang-jae.

The government is considering ways to relay themes of economic recovery on TV under the support of the Ministry of Finance and Economy and the Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Energy to keep up with President Roh`s determination to stimulate the economy.

Young-Hae Choi yhchoi65@donga.com