UN General Assembly
1976

88. We have lately been witnessing ominous signs of heightened tension in the Korean peninsula. The Korean problem continues to pose a serious threat to the maintenance of peace and security in the area. The joint communique of 1972 agreed on by the two Korean States raised hopes for a peaceful reunification of Korea through negotiations. These negotiations were started but now remain suspended. The two Korean Governments should be urged to resume their dialog. In ,the view of my Government such direct negotiations are an essential prerequisite for a peaceful settlement and the reunification of Korea. My Government is greatly satisfied that the proposed agenda items on the Korean question have been withdrawn; that raises hopes that some progress is in sight.