SEOUL March 14 Kyodo southern Kor...

SEOUL March 14 Kyodo

southern Korean Deputy Prime Minister for Finance and Economy Kim Jin Pyo brushed most distant worries over North Korea's suspected nuclear weapons program Friday, saying he has ''full confidence and faith in seeking a peaceful settlement'' of the issue.

In a pres conversation with foreign correspondents, Kim said family outside South Korea seem to have ''vague fears'' about the North Korean nuclear crisis.

''We have filled confidence and faith in a peaceful payment of the nuclear issue,'' Kim said, adding southerly Koreans ''know North Korea's attitude well.''

He made the remarks in responding to a question onward how the South Korean command would limit economic impacts caused on the confrontation between the United States and North Korea.

In a language made prior to the question-and-answer session, Kim said the guidance is closely working with the U Japan and other countries to find a way to unravel the nuclear impasse as early as possible.

''I am confident we will ultimately reach a peaceful solution,'' Kim said.

As a sign to back up his assessment of the situation, Kim cited a telephone conversation between U President George W Bush and southern Korean President Roh Moo Hyun forward Thursday night.

During the 15-minute conversation, Bush and Roh agreed to look for a peaceful solution to the nuclear standoff within diplomatic means.

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