India conveys concerns over Korean Peninsula to North Korea

India has conveyed to North Korea the significance of peace and stability in the Korean Peninsula for India's Act East policy during talks here on Monday between visiting North Korean Foreign Minister Ri Su Yong and External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj.

The April 12-14 visit by Ri is the first ever by a North Korean foreign minister. He is visiting India at the invitation of Sushma Swaraj.

According to an external affairs ministry statement, the "foreign minister-level talks were held in a frank and friendly atmosphere where issues of mutual interest including India's security concerns came up for discussion. The external affairs minister conveyed to her Korean counterpart the significance of peace and stability in the Korean peninsula for India's Act East policy".

"Foreign Minister Ri Su Yong expressed his country's appreciation for the humanitarian assistance provided by India to DPRK (Democratic Peoples republic of Korea) and in this regard sought additional assistance. EAM agreed to positively consider DPRK's request."

Ri also thanked Sushma Swaraj for the hospitality extended to him and his delegation. He invited her to visit his country, and she thanked him for the invitation.

Ri also called on Vice President Hamid Ansari.

He also paid a visit to Rajghat to offer floral tributes.