By Shim Jae-yun
Staff Reporter

President Roh Moo-hyun and Japanese Prime Minister Junichiro Koizumi in their summit talks on Wednesday will focus on finding a peaceful solution to the impasse over North Korea’s nuclear weapons program.

They will hold a joint press conference to explain the outcome of the summit meeting to be held in scenic Cheju Island. The conference will be followed by a dinner.

In a show of friendship and cooperation, Roh and Koizumi will take a stroll together tomorrow morning before completing the two-day summit meeting.

Foreign Minister Ban Ki-moon said the two leaders will attempt to find ways to advance the six-way talks aimed at resolving the North Korea nuclear issue.

``The leaders are expected to agree to closely cooperate for further progress in the nuclear talks, which have gained momentum recently,’’ Ban told reporters ahead of a Cabinet meeting at Chong Wa Dae.

The third round of the six-party talks in Beijing managed to yield substantial progress as the participating nations considered measures for freezing North Korea’s nuclear development program in return for various incentives.

U.S. National Security Advisor Condoleezza Rice further heightened expectations for a peaceful settlement of the protracted nuclear standoff by saying the U.S. would provide a ``surprising’’ reward to the North once it abandons its nuclear ambitions when she made a rare visit here early this month.

Sources said Seoul and Tokyo will closely consult over joint steps to persuade the reclusive nation to give up its nuclear program in line with the U.S. proposal offering various kinds of compensation.

Besides the nuclear issue, the two leaders will also address the envisioned establishment of a free trade agreement and the promotion of cultural exchanges between the two nations.

``As the two nations mark the 40th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations next year, they will consider the means to further solidify the future of bilateral relations,’’ said a Chong Wa Dae official.

The two leaders will also exchange views on cooperation in international issues including assistance to the interim government of Iraq.

jayshim@koreatimes.co.kr