Seoul: Former President Moon Jae-in on Monday urged North Korean leader Kim Jong-un to resume inter-Korean talks, emphasizing that it is the "fastest and safest" way to address the current deadlock. Moon made this appeal during a ceremony at the National Assembly, marking the eighth anniversary of the Panmunjom Declaration, an agreement he and Kim signed during their summit at Panmunjom in April 2018.

According to Yonhap News Agency, Moon called on Kim to adhere to the spirit of the April 27 Panmunjom summit and to collaborate with the Lee Jae Myung government in crafting a vision for "peace and prosperity on the Korean Peninsula." He emphasized that inter-Korean dialogue is crucial for overcoming the current impasse. Furthermore, Moon highlighted that North Korea's reliance on military enhancement and isolation does not guarantee "genuine security."

Moon advised that engaging in communication and expanding exchanges with the outside world is the most effective means to ensure security. On U.S.-North Korea relations, Moon expressed hope for Kim to take the "bold step of sitting down" with U.S. President Donald Trump, who had previously shown willingness to engage in talks with North Korea.

He urged Kim to utilize the improved inter-Korean ties as a bridge towards dialogue with the U.S., as was done eight years ago. Moon also encouraged Trump to demonstrate decisiveness in bringing North Korea back to negotiations, emphasizing that the Korean Peninsula issue is a "key national interest" of the United States.

Finally, Moon reiterated that a diplomatic solution is the only way to address the North Korean nuclear issue and bring peace to the Korean Peninsula. Despite offers from Lee to resume talks since taking office in June last year, Pyongyang has rejected these peace overtures.