President Kim's State Council Address

President Kim Dae-jung convened the first state council of the second cabinet under his administration on Tuesday along with the newly appointed cabinet members.

In the meeting, President Kim reminded the group that two primary issues, medical strikes and Hyundai's restructuring scheme, required immediate attention. "Please resolve these difficult issues and assure the people of your ability as new cabinet members."

President Kim also pointed out what went wrong with the previous cabinet's efforts to implement reform-related projects. "The new cabinet members must carefully analyze their performance and weigh the strengths and weaknesses of their plans."

He emphasized that reform in the public sector is lagging behind that of other sectors due to a variety of obstacles. He said "Reform should be expedited with a high degree of strictness."

The reform program aside, President Kim pledged to contribute to a nation-wide reconciliation between the different social groups, regions and generations.

Prior to the state council, President Kim mentioned, "it will be the third anniversary of my inauguration on February 25, 2001." "I hope to see a strong economy fueled by reforms in the business and financial sectors."

by Kim Jin-kook