(LEAD) S. Korea to continue efforts to reconcile with N. Korea

(ATTN: UPDATES with more info in last 2 paras; ADDS photo)

SEOUL, Aug. 23 (Yonhap) -- South Korea will continue efforts to reset ties with Pyongyang by restoring dialogue channels and providing humanitarian assistance despite heightening tensions over its weapons programs, its top North Korea policymaker said Wednesday.

Unification Minister Cho Myoung-gyon laid out key policy goals on the second day of government policy briefings to President Moon Jae-in.

"To resolve pending issues between the two Koreas, the government will make efforts to push for inter-Korean dialogue including military and family reunions talks," Cho said.

In July, Seoul proposed military talks on easing border tensions and a Red Cross meeting to discuss the resumption of the reunions for families separated by the 1950-53 Korean War. But North Korea has kept mum toward the offers and raised tensions by conducting two long-range missile tests in July.

The ministry reiterated it will promote civilian inter-Korean exchanges to the extent that the move would not hamper the international sanctions regime.

"Along with efforts to resolve urgent humanitarian issues including detainees in the North, South Korea will also seek to provide humanitarian assistance to improve situations facing North Korean citizens," Cho said.

After the briefing session, Vice Unification Minister Chun Hae-sung said that Seoul will make "persistent" efforts to resume inter-Korean talks.

"As to separated family reunions, the government will continue to send a message to North Korea and also seek cooperation from the nongovernmental sector and international cooperation over the issue," Chun told a press briefing.

sooyeon@yna.co.kr
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