Seoul:President Lee Jae Myung on Sunday emphasized the need to break away from "a vicious cycle of hostility and confrontation" to establish peace and prosperity in a speech commemorating the anniversary of the Oct. 4 Inter-Korean Declaration.

According to Yonhap News Agency, Lee's message was delivered by Vice Unification Minister Kim Nam-jung on the 19th anniversary of the declaration, which was signed by former South Korean President Roh Moo-hyun and former North Korean leader Kim Jong-il in 2007. The declaration is regarded as a significant step towards fostering mutual trust and achieving lasting peace between the two Koreas.

Lee highlighted the unfulfilled promises for peace and prosperity, noting that this has led to continued hostility and confrontation. He called for a return to the principles of the Oct. 4 declaration and the pursuit of peace and prosperity on the Korean Peninsula, honoring Roh's vision.

In a previous address at the United Nations General Assembly in New York, Lee reaffirmed his commitment to peaceful coexistence with North Korea. He outlined his administration's plan to promote inclusive, stable, and responsible coexistence, which respects North Korea's system, builds trust, and enhances cooperation and stability in Northeast Asia.