Seoul: President Lee Jae Myung vowed Monday to make ceaseless efforts for inter-Korean peace as he marked the 26th anniversary of the first inter-Korean summit in 2000. Lee made the pledge in a speech read on his behalf by his chief of staff Kang Hoon-sik at a ceremony commemorating the summit held between then President Kim Dae-jung and then North Korean leader Kim Jong-il in Pyongyang.

According to Yonhap News Agency, Lee acknowledged the challenges in resuming dialogue and cooperation with North Korea, noting that despite the government's efforts, the door to inter-Korean dialogue is not opening easily. He emphasized that setbacks should not lead to disappointment or abandonment of the peace efforts, expressing belief in the potential to resolve the situation with collective wisdom.

North Korea has rejected South Korea's peace proposals, characterizing their relationship as one of hostility. Lee stressed that achieving peace between the Koreas would benefit not only the two nations but also contribute to stability in Northeast Asia and globally. He urged taking advantage of changes in the international political landscape as an opportunity for joint prosperity on the Korean Peninsula.

Lee reaffirmed the administration's commitment to peace and coexistence, expressing determination to facilitate dialogue between South and North Korea, similar to the historic meeting 26 years ago.