Thursday, June 22, 2006

Free Trade: South Korean President calls for patience in talks with U.S.A.

Speaking ahead of next months second round of free trade talks between Korea and United States, President Roh Moo-hyun has urged people to be patient as the two sides seek the best agreement possible.

JoongAng Daily quotes President Roh Moo-hyun telling a Blue House meeting with talks-related groups and cabinet members, "A national agreement will be reached in the coming year after significant discussion".

Leaders of the anti-trade talks groups also participated in the meeting, and Mr. Roh's comment was made in reaction to the groups' criticism over the lack of national consensus.

Mr. Roh also stressed while the agreement should be made soon, it should not be rushed in such a way that would undermine its purpose.