N.K. DEFECTOR SEEKING REFUGEE STATUS IN AUSTRALIA

The Korea Herald reported that a DPRK man who fled to the ROK in 1997 has asked the Australian government to grant him refugee status, citing excessive restrictions in the ROK on DPRK defectors. A Sydney-based newspaper for ethnic Koreans reported that a 28-year-old defector, who travelled to Australia via Hong Kong and Canada, applied for refugee status on December 12. It is the first time a DPRK defector who resettled in the ROK has applied for refugee status in a third country. (Kim Ji-ho, "N.K. DEFECTOR SEEKING REFUGEE STATUS IN AUSTRALIA," Seoul, 12/17/01) 

NORTH HITS AT TRUCE BODY

Joongang Ilbo reported that a high-ranking ROK government official said on November 26 that the DPRK has asked Australia to quit the Military Armistice Commission (MAC) that formally supervises the Korean truce. "Ryu Yong-chol, vice director of the North Korean Ministry of People's Armed Forces, made the request to a high-ranking Australian diplomat October 23 in Beijing," the official said. "It is not known how the Australian counterpart responded." Ryu reportedly contended that since the DPRK and Australia enjoy normal diplomatic relations, Australia should not serve its term on the MAC. (Lee Young-jong, "NORTH HITS AT TRUCE BODY," Seoul, 11/27/01)

NORTH KOREAN FOREIGN MINISTER LEAVES FOR AUSTRALIA 

Agence France Presse reported that the DPRK's official Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) said that DPRK Foreign Minister Paek Nam-sun left Tuesday for Australia. KCNA gave no details on Paek's trip to Australia. Australian Foreign Minister Alexander Downer invited Paek to visit Australia when they met in Pyongyang in November last year. ("NORTH KOREAN FOREIGN MINISTER LEAVES FOR AUSTRALIA," 6/26/01)

North Korean book, photo and handicraft exhibition opens in Australia

Pyongyang, June 6 (KCNA) -- A North Korean book, photo and handicraft exhibition was opened in Australia on May 26. On display there are famous works of President Kim Il Sung and leader Kim Jong Il and other Korean books, and photos and handicrafts showing achievements made by the Korean people in socialist construction. At the opening ceremony speakers said that the exhibition is of great significance as it is being held for the first time since the resumption of diplomatic relations between the two countries. The exhibition will provide an opportunity to learn that the Korean people are striving for socialist construction and national reunification, rallied close around Kim Jong Il, holding him in high esteem, they noted. Saying that the Korean people are peace-loving and the most talented people, they expressed the belief that the exhibition will greatly contribute to developing the bilateral relations of friendship. They wished the Korean people greater success in their struggle to build socialism and reunify the country under the wise leadership of Kim Jong Il. 

AUSTRALIA INVITES N.K. TO NUKE SAFETY PROGRAM

The Korea Herald reported that Australia plans to invite DPRK officials to its nuclear safeguard training programs late this year as part of its broader efforts to help ease tension on the Korean Peninsula and to coax the DPRK out of its isolation, an ROK visiting senior official said Thursday. "Australia is hosting a nuclear safeguard training course and will invite North Korean officials to join regional counterparts in developing their expertise in the management and accounting of nuclear materials," Australian Foreign Minister Alexander Downer told a local press association. The move is aimed to assist the DPRK to meet its obligations under the Nuclear Nonproliferation Treaty and the Geneva Agreed Framework, he added. Australia is preparing other various aid programs for the DPRK to help the rapprochement in the peninsula regain momentum. "Dialogue and engagement is the most productive way to achieve progress in securing peace and prosperity on the Korean Peninsula and for our region as a whole," he said. ("AUSTRALIA INVITES N.K. TO NUKE SAFETY PROGRAM," Seoul, 06/01/01)

NORTH KOREA INVITED TO NUCLEAR SAFETY TRAINING IN AUSTRALIA

Agence France Presse reported that Australian Foreign Minister Alexander Downer on Thursday proposed to invite the DPRK for nuclear safety training in his country this year. Downer said, "Australia will host a nuclear safeguards training course this year and will invite North Korean officials to join regional counterparts in developing their expertise in the management and accounting of nuclear materials." He added that the invitation was extended to help the DPRK comply with obligations set by international nuclear safety organizations. ("NORTH KOREA INVITED TO NUCLEAR SAFETY TRAINING IN AUSTRALIA," Seoul, 5/31/01)

DOWNER EXPECTS NORTH KOREAN FM TO VISIT AUSTRALIA THIS YEAR

Agence France Presse reported that ROK foreign ministry officials said that Australian Foreign Minister Alexander Downer on Wednesday said that he expected his DPRK counterpart Paek Nam-sun to visit Australia this year. During talks with ROK Foreign Miniter Han Seung-soo, Downer disclosed Paek's agreement to a visit, reached when Downer traveled to the DPRK last November. The ROK official added that Downer, who arrived in Seoul on May 29 for a three-day visit, expressed continued support for ROK efforts for peace with the DPRK. The exact date for Paek's planned visit to Canberra was unknown. ("DOWNER EXPECTS NORTH KOREAN FM TO VISIT AUSTRALIA THIS YEAR," Seoul, 5/30/01) 

US MISSILE DEFENCE PLANS REVIVES COLD WAR DEBATE IN AUSTRALIA

Agence France Presse reported that US presidential envoy James Kelly, Assistant Secretary of State for East Asia and the Pacific, met with Australian opposition Labour Party leader Kim Beazley in Melbourne on Friday to explain US President George W. Bush's decision to deploy a missile shield. The US delegation is also scheduled to meet Foreign Minister Alexander Downer on May 12, before departing for Singapore. Although Kelly has not yet spoken publicly, his visit has opened stark foreign policy divisions between the political left and right in Australia during an election year. The conservative coalition government led by Prime Minister John Howard has been among the new Bush administration's most vocal supporters, while the Labour opposition opposes plans to develop the missile system, warning that it could spark a new nuclear arms race in Asia. ("US MISSILE DEFENCE PLANS REVIVES COLD WAR DEBATE IN AUSTRALIA," Canberra, 5/11/01)

Australia Rejects US Stance on North Korea

The Canberra Times reported that the Federal Government of Australia will stick with its policy of engaging with communist North Korea, despite the Bush Administration's hardening approach towards the regime of Kim Jong-il. Australia has supported the United States in its stance on national missile defence and in its recent dispute with China over the downed US spy-plane.  It has even expressed some understanding for the US position on the Kyoto climate control agreement. Since President George W. Bush came into office, however, there has been a distinct change of view towards the North Korean regime, and a policy review is under way after Mr Bush postponed talks with North Korea on curbing missile testing.

The US is suspicious of the Marxist-Leninist North, with its home-grown philosophy of Juche or "self-reliance", and has regularly called it a "rogue state" for its missile development  and nuclear programs. A spokesman for Foreign Affairs Minister Alexander Downer said Australia would not follow the US on this matter, and the Government's decision last year to restore ties with North Korea would remain in place. The European Union, continued the article, has also resisted the US move to toughen its stance on North Korea and is seeking ways of starting talks again with the North. Australia restored diplomatic ties with the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) on 8 May 2000 after a break in relations lasting more than 25 years. trade between Australia and North Korea remains to be modest. (Lincoln Wright, The Canberra Times, 23/04/2001)

AUSTRALIAN HUMANITARIAN ASSISTANCE FOR THE DEMOCRATIC PEOPLES' REPUBLIC OF KOREA

MINISTER FOR FOREIGN AFFAIRS ALEXANDER DOWNER (Pyongyang, Nov. 2000)

"I am pleased to announce Australia is contributing $5 million to the World Food Programme (WFP) and $580,000 to the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) for their humanitarian assistance activities in the Democratic Peoples’ Republic of Korea (DPRK). My discussions with the Government and aid agencies operating in the DPRK highlighted the poor prospects for food security. The short-term food situation is particularly precarious. Of major concern is ensuring children and other vulnerable groups, such as pregnant women and the elderly, receive sufficient nutrition.

The Australian Government’s aid agency, AusAID, will contribute $5 million to WFP for the purchase and delivery of Australian wheat. The consignment of 12,000 tonnes of wheat from New South Wales will leave Newcastle 16 November. Working closely with the DPRK Government, WFP’s emergency operation has benefited more than eight million people from a range of targeted vulnerable areas, including hospitals, nurseries, kindergartens and schools.

In meetings in Pyongyang I urged the DPRK to work with international agencies to conduct a follow up survey of nutritional needs. A previous survey in 1998 was instrumental in highlighting areas of critical need and provided a sound basis for more effective planning and targeting of nutritional assistance. With a view to further assisting the DPRK in this area of critical nutritional need, Australia will contribute $580,000 to a UNICEF program for the severely malnourished, targeting two million children and five-hundred thousand mothers. Severely malnourished children require frequent feeds of high-energy foods. Australia’s contribution to this project will help with the production of these special foods. Total Australian development assistance to the DPRK for 2000/2001 is estimated at $7.6 million. This brings development assistance Australia has provided to the DPRK to a total of $33.3 million since 1996/7, including $23.9 million in humanitarian aid."

SMEC's experience of North Korea

The Snowy Mountains Engineering Corporation's first project in the Democratic People's Republic of Korea is funded by the Kuwait Fund for Arab Economic Development. SMEC is hopeful that this project will mark the beginning of an Australia ongoing contribution to the economic reconstruction of the DPRK...

Australia's Hawkish Defence White Paper

By Sushil P. Seth  2000.12.30 (The Korea Herald)

Australia's white paper on defence is a pretty hawkish document, considering that any major threat to its security "remains only a remote possibility." All this talk of attacking "hostile forces in their home bases, forward operating bases and in transit" is pretty scary. The white paper incorporates Admiral Blair's argument that forward deployment could act as an important deterrence in this diverse and uncertain post-Cold war environment. And in this uncertain environment, the United States and Australia needed forces that could fight in wars such as Desert Storm (as in the Gulf), lead multilateral peacekeeping operations (as in East Timor) and also fight a war, if necessary. At the same time, as the white paper says, "Australia's interests could be deeply engaged in a sustained confrontation between the major powers in Asia, especially if it involved the United States, (and China over Taiwan) or if it intruded into our nearer region"...

Australia-N. Korea diplomatic relationship improving

In response to the improved dynamic in relations between South and North Korea, and the North's positive overtures to the international community, Australia was one of the first countries to resume diplomatic relations with North Korea, in May last year. Since that time there have been a number of visits by Australian Government officials to North Korea, along with a trade mission last December - all of which have contributed toward developing a new positive direction in Australia's bilateral relationship with Pyongyang... 

Greetings to Australian General Governor

Pyongyang, January 27 (KCNA) -- Kim Yong Nam, President of the presidium of the DPRK 
Supreme People's Assembly, sent a message of greetings to William Deane, General Governor of the Commonwealth of Australia, on Friday on the occasion of the 125th Independence Day of Australia. In the message Kim extended warm congratulations to the general governor and, through him, to the Australian government and people on the Independence Day. After the reopening of diplomatic relations the friendly and cooperative relations between the two countries are developing on good terms in the interests of the two peoples, the message noted, and said: Satisfied with this, I express belief that the bilateral relations will grow stronger and develop. Meanwhile, premier of the DPRK cabinet Hong Song Nam sent greetings to his Australian counterpart John Howard and DPRK Foreign Minister Paek Nam Sun to his Australian counterpart Alexander Downer. 

AUSTRALIA WANTS TO TRAIN NORTH KOREA IN NUCLEAR SAFETY

Agence France Presse  reported that Australian Foreign Minister Alexander Downer said on Friday that Australia has offered to provide training and technical assistance on nuclear safeguards to the DPRK as part of a bid to reduce security tensions in the region. Downer said in a statement that during his meeting in DPRK, "I urged the North to continue deepening its engagement with the South to further reduce tensions in the region. I encouraged my interlocutors to take positive steps on nuclear concerns. In this context I indicated that Australia was willing to provide training and technical assistance on nuclear safeguards. I also encouraged further North Korean restraint on the development, production and export of missiles." Downer also offered to help train the DPRK officials in economics and governance and invited his counterpart, Foreign Minister Paek Nam-sun, to pay a return trip to Australia. ("AUSTRALIA WANTS TO TRAIN NORTH KOREA IN NUCLEAR SAFETY," Sydney, 11/17/00)

N.Z., LUXEMBOURG CALL ON P'YANG TO FULFILL CTBT FOR TIES

The Korea Herald reported that two foreign diplomatic envoys have called for the DPRK to adhere to the Comprehensive Test Ban Treaty (CTBT) and arms control to further promote diplomatic relations. "North Korea should fulfill a number of New Zealand's key foreign policy concerns such as disarmament, arms control, regional security and human rights for the two countries to form closer ties," said New Zealand Ambassador to the ROK Roy Ferguson. Ferguson cited some significant issues over which New Zealand and the DPRK have deep and fundamental differences of view. "One example of such differences is the CTBT, a major milestone in international disarmament efforts, and North Korea is one of the countries blocking the treaty from coming into effect," the ambassador said. "That would be a major point of diplomatic disagreement between New Zealand and North Korea," the envoy stressed, adding that it may prove to be the last major obstacle before both countries pursue diplomatic relations. (Kil Byung-ok, "N.Z., LUXEMBOURG CALL ON P'YANG TO FULFILL CTBT FOR TIES," Seoul, 11/20/00)

DOWNER VETS N. KOREAN LINKS

The Australian reported that Australian Foreign Minister Alexander Downer touched down on DPRK soil on November 14 on a two-day mission "to assess whether Pyongyang was serious about engaging Australia as a regional partner." Downer said that Australia stood ready to cooperate across a range of issues. "We feel that a visit is an important part of bringing North Korea in from the cold and engaging them in the Asia-Pacific community," Downer said. Topping Downer's agenda for his talks with DPRK officials was the DPRK's development of nuclear-capable missiles. Downer said, however, that he would not be attaching conditions to Australian engagement. Australia will provide US$5 million worth of wheat to the DPRK this year. (Lynne O'Donnell, "DOWNER VETS N. KOREAN LINKS," Sydney, 11/15/00)

DOWNER MUST TREAD WARILY IN PYONGYANG

The Australian carried an editorial which noted that in just a few months, "North Korea has been transformed from an isolated Stalinist state into a tentative new friend of the West." The writer argued that "the signs are good that Pyongyang will continue to draw its iron curtain and Australia is in pole position to exploit the trade opportunities that it will bring." Australia is attracted by the lure of a new market of 25 million people eager for consumer goods, and the DPRK is desperately in need of upgraded infrastructure. "Pyongyang must become part of a stable North Asia, so the region's trade potential can be fulfilled." However, "trade concerns must not come at the expense of other pressing questions." There is an underlying agenda in encouraging diplomatic and trade contact with the DPRK. "All the handshaking will be pointless unless it halts North Korea's missile defence program and military build-up along the demilitarised zone, as well as delivers assurances that foreign aid is reaching the poor."

It is understandable that western nations are eager to engage with the DPRK. "Yet it is important not to jump the gun before North Korea proves it is willing to give ground on key issues such as missile defence. Mr. Clinton is right to hold off on his North Korean visit until further security gains are made. Mr. Downer's visit will be worthwhile if it impresses upon his counterpart, Paek Nam-Sum, the responsibilities that come with the relaxation of trade and diplomatic sanctions. It will also be useful if it opens trade doors. But it will be a waste of time if it is just another photo opportunity." ("DOWNER MUST TREAD WARILY IN PYONGYANG," Sydney, 11/15/00)

US NAVAL CHIEF WARNS AGAINST LINGERING NORTH KOREAN THREAT

The Australian reported that the DPRK on November 15 committed itself to ending its nuclear missile program in exchange for western money, even as the US military commander in the Pacific "warned that it remained a substantial military threat." Speaking in Melbourne, US Admiral Dennis C. Blair, Commander-in-Chief, US Pacific Command, said "North Korea's economy was still starving its people while funding a huge army." These comments came as Alexander Downer, on the second day of his visit to the DPRK, said that he had secured a commitment from the DPRK that its nuclear missile program would be scrapped if the west paid adequate compensation. Downer said that no sum had been mentioned, and the issue of an Australian contribution to the final figure had not been raised. Downer said that he received positive indications that the DPRK would continue to pursue diplomatic engagements with western countries, but he added that there was "no interest at the upper echelons of the Government to move towards political or economic reforms." DPRK officials also "indicated their willingness to reunify with South Korea in a confederation that would allow Pyongyang to retain its present Government." (Lynne O'Donnell and Cameron Stewart "US NAVAL CHIEF WARNS AGAINST LINGERING NORTH KOREAN THREAT," Sydney, 11/16/00)

Australian Foreign Minister hosts reception

Pyongyang, November 16 (KCNA) -- Australian Foreign Minister Alexander John Gosse Downer hosted a reception yesterday in connection with his visit to the DPRK. Present on invitation were Paek Nam Sun, Minister of Foreign Affairs, and Pak Kil Yon, vice-Minister of Foreign Affairs, and officials concerned. Present there were the Australian Foreign Minister and his party. Speeches were made there. 

AUSTRALIAN MINISTER HOPES FOR KOREAN REUNIFICATION: REPORT

Agence France Presse reported that Australian Foreign Minister Alexander Downer expressed hope after his arrival in the DPRK that the two Koreas could reunite. The DPRK's official Korean Central News Agency said that Downer arrived in Pyongyang on November 14 and immediately held talks with the DPRK Foreign Minister Paek Nam-sun. The two sides also signed an agriculture cooperation accord. KCNA said, "At the talks both sides exchanged views on the need to develop the friendly relations between the two countries and a series of issues of mutual concern." Paek said in his speech that Downer's visit "marks an important occasion of promoting mutual understanding and confidence and giving impetus to the development of the bilateral relations." Downer's office has said he planned to emphasize world concerns about the DPRK's nuclear capacity and its missiles during the visit. ("AUSTRALIAN MINISTER HOPES FOR KOREAN REUNIFICATION: REPORT," Seoul, 11/15/00)

AUSTRALIAN MINISTER HOPES FOR KOREAN REUNIFICATION: REPORT

Agence France Presse reported that Australian Foreign Minister Alexander Downer expressed hope after his arrival in the DPRK that the two Koreas could reunite. The DPRK's official Korean Central News Agency said that Downer arrived in Pyongyang on November 14 and immediately held talks with the DPRK Foreign Minister Paek Nam-sun. The two sides also signed an agriculture cooperation accord. KCNA said, "At the talks both sides exchanged views on the need to develop the friendly relations between the two countries and a series of issues of mutual concern." Paek said in his speech that Downer's visit "marks an important occasion of promoting mutual understanding and confidence and 
giving impetus to the development of the bilateral relations." Downer's office has said he planned to emphasize world concerns about the DPRK's nuclear capacity and its missiles during the visit. 

Kim Yong Nam meets Australian Foreign Minister Pyongyang, November 15 (KCNA) -- Kim Yong Nam, President of the presidium of the Supreme People's Assembly of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea, met and conversed with Alexander John Gosse Downer, Foreign Minister of Australia, and his party at the Mansudae Assembly Hall today. Present there were Pak Kil Yon, vice-Minister of Foreign Affairs. ("AUSTRALIAN MINISTER HOPES FOR KOREAN REUNIFICATION: REPORT," Seoul, 11/15/00)

Memorandum signed between DPRK and Australia

Pyongyang, November 15 (KCNA) -- A memorandum of understanding on joint agricultural research and development plan between the governments of the DPRK and Australia was signed in Pyongyang yesterday. Present at the signing ceremony were Paek Nam Sun, Minister of Foreign Affairs, So Kil Bok, vice-Minister of Foreign Trade, and officials concerned and Australian Foreign Minister Alexander John Gosse Downer and his party. 

Australian Foreign Minister arrives

Pyongyang, November 14 (KCNA) -- Alexander John Gosse Downer, Foreign Minister of Australia, and his party arrived here today. They were greeted at the airport by Pak Kil Yon, vice-Minister of Foreign Affairs, and officials concerned. Foreign Minister Paek Nam Sun today met and had a talk with the Foreign Minister of Australia and his party. 

Talks held between foreign ministers of DPRK and Australia

Pyongyang, November 14 (KCNA) -- Talks were held between DPRK Foreign Minister Paek Nam Sun and his Australian counterpart Alexander John Gosse Downer at the Mansudae Assembly Hall today. At the talks both sides exchanged views on the need to develop the friendly relations between the two countries and a series of issues of mutual concern. 

Reception given for Australian FM and his party

Pyongyang, November 15 (KCNA) -- The DPRK government hosted a reception for the Australian Foreign Minister and his party on a visit to the DPRK at the Mansudae Assembly Hall yesterday. 
Paek Nam Sun, Minister of Foreign Affairs, made a speech there. The visit of the Australian Foreign Minister and his party to the DPRK marks an important occasion of promoting the mutual understanding and confidence and giving impetus to the development of the bilateral relations, he said, and continued: 
The two countries share the desire to contribute to developing the bilateral relations on the publicly recognized principles of the international law--mutual respect for sovereignty, non-interference in other's internal affairs, equality and reciprocity--and achieving regional reconciliation, cooperation and prosperity. 

The Australian Foreign Minister in his speech made at the reception said that he was very pleased to visit Pyongyang and it was impressive to see the north and the south entering the Sydney Olympics together with one flag. He praised the north-south summit held in Pyongyang in June and expressed hope that the DPRK would defend sovereignty in the future, too, and Korean reunification be achieved. 

DOWNER HAILS FORTHCOMING TRIP TO NORTH KOREA

Agence France Presse reported that Australian Foreign Minister Alexander Downer said on November 11 that his visit to the DPRK would be a milestone in the DPRK's emergence from isolation. The three-day visit starting on November 14 will be the first by an Australian foreign minister since 1975, and the first ministerial visit since Australia resumed ties with the DPRK in May. Downer told reporters before meeting Japan's Foreign Minister Yohei Kono in Brunei, on the sidelines of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) meeting, "I think that it's important that we play our part as a significant country in the region to try to help bring North Korea in from the cold. I think a country like Australia can play an important part in the process of building confidence between North Korea and in particular the rest of the Asia-Pacific region." 

A Japanese foreign ministry official said that Kono did not ask Downer to raise the kidnapping issue during their meeting. The official said, "Mr. Kono understands that Mr. Downer is already aware of Japan's concerns. Mr. Downer assured Mr. Kono that he would brief him on his trip to North Korea. He told him that it's important for North Korea to become a member of the international community." ("DOWNER HAILS FORTHCOMING TRIP TO NORTH KOREA," Bandar Seri Bergawan, 11/11/00)

AUSSIE FOREIGN MINISTER TO VISIT N. KOREA TUESDAY

The Korea Herald reported that an ROK Foreign Ministry official said on Sunday that the Netherlands and Belgium have announced their decision to take steps for diplomatic normalization with the DPRK in earnest. "Both the Dutch and Belgian governments approved their diplomatic normalization initiatives with Pyongyang at their respective cabinet meetings last week," said the official, who requested not to be named. "The South Korean government welcomes such diplomatic moves by the European Union (EU) nations," the official said, adding the DPRK's integration into the international community is the most desirable way of achieving gradual, step-by-step changes in the DPRK. (Kil Byung-ok, "MORE COUNTRIES ANNOUNCE TIES WITH N. KOREA," Seoul, 11/13/00) and The Korea Times ("AUSSIE FOREIGN MINISTER TO VISIT N. KOREA TUESDAY," Seoul, 11/11/00) 

AUSTRALIA MIN TO DISCUSS SECURITY ISSUES IN N KOREA VISIT

The Associated Press reported that Australia's Foreign Affairs Minister Alexander Downer said on Tuesday that security concerns, including missile and nuclear issues, would top the agenda during his three-day visit to the DPRK next week. Downer told the Australian parliament, "We're working with other countries, including the U.S., to encourage North Korea to cooperate fully with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) to remove concerns about its nuclear ambitions." 

Downer's visit would be the first by an Australian minister since it restored diplomatic relations with the DPRK in May. Downer said that he would also take up the DPRK's humanitarian problems, including the food shortages. He added, "I'll take the opportunity of discussing North Korea's humanitarian problems because North Korea does face chronic food shortages. During my visit I will convey to the Democratic Peoples' Republic of Korea the importance of taking further steps to engage positively with South Korea and the region." ("AUSTRALIA MIN TO DISCUSS SECURITY ISSUES IN N KOREA VISIT," Canberra, 11/7/00)

AUSSIE FOREIGN MINISTER TO VISIT NK NEXT MONTH

The Korea Times reported that an ROK government source said Saturday that Australian Foreign Minister Alexander Downer will visit the DPRK late next month to hold talks with his counterpart Paek Nam-sun on enhancing bilateral ties. During the talks, Downer will reportedly stress the DPRK's need to reduce threats arising from its development of weapons of mass destruction, and make efforts to improve its human rights record. The Australian foreign minister, however, is unlikely to suggest the exchange of embassies. ("AUSSIE FOREIGN MINISTER TO VISIT NK NEXT MONTH," Seoul, 10/30/00)

GERMANY, AUSTRALIA QUICKEN STEPS IN RAPPROCHEMENT WITH NORTH KOREA

The Korea Herald reported that ROK Foreign Ministry officials said Sunday that Germany and Australia will likely quicken their diplomatic pace with the DPRK in the coming weeks. "Brisk efforts for diplomatic rapprochement with Pyongyang by these countries will serve as a role model for other Western nations to have progressive and constructive relations with North Korea," said an official, who asked not to be named. German Foreign Minister Joschka Fischer was to visit Seoul Tuesday to discuss the country's policy toward the DPRK, officials said. (Kil Byung-ok, "GERMANY, AUSTRALIA QUICKEN STEPS IN 
RAPPROCHEMENT WITH N.K.," Seoul, 10/30/00)

N. KOREANS HAVE 1.15 TV SETS PER 10 PERSONS

The Korea Herald reported that there are a total of 2.7 million TV sets in the DPRK based on statistics compiled in 1996, or 1.15 sets per 10 persons. According to material presented by the Information and Communication Ministry for parliamentary inspection, there are three TV stations in the DPRK--Chosun Central TV, Mansudae TV and Kaesung TV--and most of the TV sets are black and white. 

The DPRK successfully concluded an Internet exchange with Australia several years ago, but generally prohibits such exchanges with foreign countries. However, it maintains Chinese and Japanese-registered Web sites for propaganda purposes. ("N. KOREANS HAVE 1.15 TV SETS PER 10 PERSONS," Seoul, 10/21/00)

DPRK catches Olympic weightlifting silver medal

Pyongyang, September 19 (KCNA) -- DPRK weightlifter Ri Song Hui won the silver medal in the women's 58kg division of weightlifting at the 27th Olympiad in Sidney on Sept. 18. She lifted a total of 220 kg (97.5 snatch and 122.5 jerk). 

Kye Sun Hui of DPRK places third at 27th Olympiad

Pyongyang, September 18 (KCNA) -- DPRK Judoist Kye Sun Hui reportedly won the bronze medal in the 52 kg division of women's Judo at the 27th Olympiad in Sidney, Australia. 

THE TWENTY-ONE YEAR FREEZE: AUSTRALIA'S RELATIONS WITH THE DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF KOREA

The stagnation of the relationship between Australia and the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) is striking in an era of  rapid political and economic change in the Asia-Pacific region. Relations have been frozen since the expulsion of the staff of the Australian Embassy in Pyongyang on 8 November 1975. While the two countries have continued to recognise each other, for over twenty years they have not exchanged diplomatic representation. In recent years, Australia has limited official contact to talks between middle-level officials on an irregular basis with no fixed agenda, and has thus largely limited the scope of relations to the non-official sphere. There is little evidence of debate within Australia on whether the current state of affairs serves the national interest, and the purpose of this paper is, therefore, to outline the background to current Australian policy and look at some options for the future.  

NEW STEPS IN AUSTRALIAN-DPRK RELATIONS

People's Daily carried an article saying that the relationship between Australia and the DPRK is moving towards improvement.  After the two countries announced the resumption of diplomatic relations on May 8, the article said, the Australian ambassador to the PRC, who concurrently serves as Australian ambassador to the DPRK, went to Pyongyang on July 4-8.  He presented the credentials to Kim Yong-nam and met DPRK officials of different departments, the report said.  The normalization of Australian-DPRK relations, which was well received by the international community, undoubtedly was conducive to peace and stability in Asia-Pacific area, the article concluded. (Li Xuejiang, "NEW STEPS IN AUSTRALIAN-DPRK RELATIONS," 7/11/00, P6) 

N. Korean FM Meets Newly Appointed Australian Ambassador

    Pyongyang, July 6 (KCNA) -- Paek Nam Sun, Foreign Minister of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea, today met and had a talk with David Taylor Irvine, newly appointed Australian ambassador to the DPRK who paid a courtesy call on him.

HOPE AND FEAR AS KOREAS MOVE CLOSER

The Australian suggested there is an unfettered sense of optimism surrounding the meeting of the two Koreas in Pyongyang.  Notwithstanding the promise of the agreement, expectations must be grounded in history.  Similar attempts in 1972 and 1991 both failed and led to renewed hostility.  While some important issues have been addressed, the toughest and most important questions of regional security remain to be broached.  "Yet such questions should not overwhelm this week's tremendous achievements by both leaders.  The focus now should be on consolidating this important step forward." (Editorial, "HOPE AND FEAR AS KOREAS MOVE CLOSER", Sydney, 06/16/00)

HANDSHAKE MARKS A NEW SUNRISE

The Australian argued that the extraordinary pictures of Kim Jong-il greeting Kim Dae-jung at Pyongyang airport offer the best hope for decades that substantial change may be about to occur in the DPRK.  The article stated, "That the meeting took place at all represents a huge triumph for Kim Dae-jung and another astonishing episode in his unbelievable life....  He has attempted to bathe the North Koreans in the warm glow of sunshine and goodwill.  Eventually, propelled by their own systemic crisis, the North Koreans had to take yes for an answer and open a dialogue."  It added that it is extremely unlikely that Kim Jong-il would have engaged in the grand drama and high symbolism of this summit if he did not mean it to signal, to his own people and to the world at large, a fundamental shift in orientation.  Short-term results are likely to be modest, but any movement at all would represent a decisive break with the past 10 years. (Greg Sheridan, "HANDSHAKE MARKS A NEW SUNRISE", Sydney, 06/14/00)

HANDS ACROSS THE DMZ

The Australian suggested that the Korean summit marks a welcome thaw.  The article stated, "What is certain is that something has begun to fundamentally shift in the firmament of inter-Korean relations, with potentially profound implications for the rest of the region.  Could this be the last, extraordinary gasp in the Cold War saga, or are the world's expectations of this event grossly in excess of the meagre realities that it is likely to yield?"  It argued that part of the reason for the summit lies with the personality of Kim Dae-jung.  "But what's in all of this for the North?  Answer: avoiding systemic regime collapse."  The article said that while there may be some initial movement on the question of family reunions and some advance on the economic front, "as for the most intractable set of issues (reunification, US troop withdrawal, the cessation of North Korea's missile and nuclear programs) we are still likely to be a long way off."  (Kevin Rudd, "HANDS ACROSS THE DMZ", Sydney, 06/14/00)

KOREAN DESTINY TIED TO OUR OWN

The Australian wrote that it is impossible not to be moved by the "extraordinary" summit.  The article stated, "It is an unambiguous triumph of Kim Dae-jung's sunshine policy towards the North."  It added that there is a clear agreement among the ROK, the US, Japan and Australia as to the desired outcome: "it is for North Korea not to collapse, because the human and financial costs would be huge and regionally destabilising, but to undergo a lengthy period of Chinese-style economic reform.  But, and this is a terrible but, no other nation has actually been able to emulate China's model of centralised authoritarian political control combined with rapid economic growth, decentralisation and modernisation."  In every other Asian nation that has tried, either the political regime has collapsed or economic reform has come to a halt.  

"Even so, if North Korea could even manage minimal economic reform, even as much as Vietnam managed in the early 1990s, it could grow enough to stabilise its food situation and move its now derelict industrial economy back into the modern world."  Kim Dae-jung and Kim Jong-il now actually share a common strategic interest in trying to stabilise the North Korean economy and even maintain the regime for the moment.  "The question is whether Kim Jong-il at least feels he can risk the political loosening which would come from greater contact with the outside world."  Australia's interests in all this are huge. "That Australia recently agreed to re-establish diplomatic relations with North Korea is a small but valuable contribution to the process of normalisation.  The whole process demonstrates once more how in almost every way our destiny is intimately tied up with that of our northern neighbours." (Greg Sheridan, "KOREAN DESTINY TIED TO OUR OWN", Sydney, 06/16/00) 

HOPE AND FEAR AS KOREAS MOVE CLOSER

The Australian suggested there is an unfettered sense of optimism surrounding the meeting of the two Koreas in Pyongyang.  Notwithstanding the promise of the agreement, expectations must be grounded in history.  Similar attempts in 1972 and 1991 both failed and led to renewed hostility.  While some important issues have been addressed, the toughest and most important questions of regional security remain to be broached.  "Yet such questions should not overwhelm this week's tremendous achievements by both leaders.  The focus now should be on consolidating this important step forward." (Editorial, "HOPE AND FEAR AS KOREAS MOVE CLOSER", Sydney, 06/16/00)

THE SIGNIFICANCE OF AUSTRALIAN AIR OPERATIONS IN KOREA

(FLT LT Bruce Lyman)

On 25 June 1950 North Korea invaded South Korea. Almost immediately Australia committed Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) fighter aircraft, based in Japan, to the support of South Korean forces. For the next three years Australian aircraft were to fight an air war in a tactical environment rather than in the collective, strategic role for which it had been planned and designed. There is therefore a tendency to dismiss the involvement of the RAAF in the Korean War as being of minor operational importance. That the Korean war is often labelled the "Forgotten War" also suggests that it is considered of little importance from a political point of view. However the commitment of the fighter squadron heralded the beginning of a new era of thinking, by the Government and the RAAF, in the application of Australian air power... 

DPRK-Australian Diplomatic Relations Reopened

Pyongyang, May 8 (KCNA) -- A communique on reopening diplomatic relations between the Democratic People's Republic of Korea and the Commonwealth of Australia was released here today. It said: The DPRK and the Australian governments agreed to reopen the temporarily suspended diplomatic relations at ambassadorial level to develop the friendly and cooperative relations between the two countries on the principle of mutual respect for sovereignty, non-interference in other's internal affairs, equality and reciprocity. Both sides will soon appoint their ambassadors, the communique said.

Australia-DPRK Relations

Australia has long recognised two states on the Korean Peninsula - the Republic of Korea (ROK) and the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK). Throughout the 1960s and 1970s, while Australia's relationship with the ROK prospered and grew on the basis of trade complementarity and shared regional concerns, contacts with the DPRK remained limited. Following the election of the Whitlam Labor Government in 1972, working level talks began with the DPRK. Practical working contacts in the area of trade were agreed and a senior DPRK trade delegation visited Australia in July 1973.

CHIEF CABINET SECRETARY AOKI WELCOMES RESTORATION OF DIPLOMATIC RELATIONS

The Asahi Shimbun reported that Mikio Aoki, Japanese Chief Cabinet Secretary, on May 8 responded to the Korean Central News Agency's report that the DPRK and Australia agreed to resume diplomatic relations.  Aoki stated, "I think (the agreement) is very worth welcoming....  It will pose a positive effect on Japanese-DPRK relations." ("CHIEF CABINET SECRETARY AOKI WELCOMES RESTORATION OF DIPLOMATIC RELATIONS," 05/08/2000)

BRIDGE TO N. KOREA IS REBUILT AFTER 25 YEARS

The Australian reported that Australia on Monday resumed diplomatic ties with the DPRK, in a joint announcement in Canberra and Pyongyang. The DPRK had suddenly suspended relations with Australia in 1975, probably in response to Australia's vote against the DPRK in the UN.  The diplomatic relations remain cautious, with both countries opting for non-residential ambassadors--Australia will be represented by its ambassador to the PRC, David Irvine, and Pyongyang by its ambassador to Indonesia. Australian Foreign Minister Alexander Downer said that the decision to resume ties "gives Australia a direct channel of communications with North Korea; it gives us greater opportunity to encourage North Korea to engage in regional dialogue and to address security concerns." (Robert Garran, "BRIDGE TO N KOREA IS REBUILT AFTER 25 YEARS", 5/11/00)

DOWNER WARY ON N. KOREA TIES

The Australian Financial Review reported that Alexander Downer said that Australia had held extensive discussions with the ROK, United States, Japan and the PRC on the resumption of relations with the DPRK, and all had been positive about the move.  Conceding that Australia had no expectation of substantial change in the DPRK's domestic regime, Downer said that resumption of relations "would add impetus to the spirit of dialogue and compromise on the Korean peninsula", and that he hoped the DPRK would soon join the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Regional Forum. (Geoffrey Barker, "DOWNER WARY ON N KOREA TIES" 5/09/00)

RESUMING DIPLOMATIC RELATIONS WELCOMED

People's Daily carried an article saying that the resumption of relations between the DPRK and Australia is popularly welcomed by the international community, including the ROK.  According to the article, the warming of DPRK-Australian relations began in April 1999, when the DPRK foreign minister wrote to his Australian counterpart to express his will to improve bilateral relations.  The Australian government believes that, the article said, the situation on Korean Peninsula is relevant to its national interests.  Firstly, it refers to Australia's security interest, the article said, because of Australian concerns about the DPRK's research on nuclear energy.  

Economic benefits are another consideration of the Australian government, according to the article.  Australia does not want to see its trade with the ROK interrupted by the tensions on the Korean Peninsula and expects that its economic exchanges with the DPRK will be increased.  Australia hopes that the resumption of its diplomatic relationship with the DPRK will be conducive to dialogue and reconciliation on the Korean Peninsula, the article said, adding that it also conforms to the interests of the countries in the region. People's Daily (Li Xuejiang, "RESUMING DIPLOMATIC RELATIONS WELCOMED," 05/10/00, p6)

AUSTRALIA FORMALLY ANNOUNCES NK RELATIONS

Chosun Ilbo reported that Australian Minister for Foreign Affairs Alexander Downer announced on May 8 that the DPRK and Australia were resuming diplomatic relations.  Australia's Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) officially announced that both countries would be naming non-resident ambassadors, with the DPRK's ambassador to Indonesia being accredited as its ambassador to Australia, and Australia's ambassador to the PRC also serving as that country's ambassador to the DPRK. Chosun Ilbo (Kim Seong-yong, "AUSTRALIA FORMALLY ANNOUNCES NK RELATIONS," Seoul, 05/09/00)

AUSTRALIA RESUMES TIES WITH N.KOREA AFTER CONSULTING ASIAN NEIGHBOURS

Agence France Presse reported that Australian Foreign Minister Alexander Downer said on Monday that Australia and the DPRK renewed diplomatic relations after a 25 year freeze Monday, but not
before Australia first consulted its Asia-Pacific neighbors. He said that the ROK, the US, Japan and the PRC had been "very positive in their responses to this initiative."  However, Downer added that the relationship would be endangered if the DPRK shot another missile over Japan as it did in 1998.  Downer said that restoring ties with the DPRK gave it an opportunity to encourage the DPRK to engage in regional dialogue.  

In an official communique carried by the Korean Central News Agency, the DPRK said that "temporarily suspended" ties had been reopened "to develop the friendly and cooperative relations between the two countries on the principle of mutual respect for sovereignty, non-interference in other's internal affairs, equality and reciprocity." Both the ROK and Japan saw benefits for their own dealings with the DPRK. ROK foreign ministry spokesman Lee Kwan-se said in a statement, "we expect the resuming of diplomatic relations between North Korea and Australia to positively contribute to improving inter-Korean ties." Agence France Presse ("AUSTRALIA RESUMES TIES WITH N.KOREA AFTER CONSULTING ASIAN NEIGHBOURS," Canberra, 5/8/00)

NORTH KOREA, AUSTRALIA RESTORE DIPLOMATIC TIES

The Korea Herald reported that ROK officials said Monday that the DPRK and Australia have agreed to restore diplomatic relations.  An unnamed senior official at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade stated, "The Australian and North Korean governments are expected to simultaneously announce the agreement today."  ROK officials said that the move would positively affect the ROK-DPRK summit meeting and help the DPRK's attempts to improve relations with the US, Japan and other countries.  ROK observers also said that the DPRK might have promoted the restoration of ties with Australia in order to pave the way for its admission into the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Regional Forum and facilitate loans from the Asia Development Bank and other world financial bodies.  One unnamed analyst stated, "The North's move proves its strategy is to prevent the Kim Jong-il government from collapsing by opening its closed doors and drawing foreign economic assistance." The Korea Herald (Shin Yong-bae, "NORTH KOREA, AUSTRALIA RESTORE DIPLOMATIC TIES," 05/08/00) 

NKOREA IN ANOTHER STEP TO END COLD WAR ISOLATION

Agence France Presse and Reuters reported that ROK analysts said that the DPRK's push to end decades of diplomatic isolation was catapulted by its normalization of ties on Monday with Australia and will continue to gain speed.  Hong Hyun-ik of Sejong Institute, a private think-tank in the ROK, said, "the isolationist North is sending a clear message to the outside world that it is changing towards openness.  Now, the Pyongyang leadership may be waiting for the world to give an answer to what rewards wait for the change urged by its neighbors.  The North's diplomatic approach to Canberra is deemed as part of its 'grand scheme' to cash in on improving ties with others."  ROK officials have predicted that the DPRK will also try to forge diplomatic links with the Philippines in June or July, and also join the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN).  

Hong said that the DPRK seems to have realized that unless it sends strong signals it is ready to open up, it will receive "only a limited amount of aid" needed to revive its economy. Paik Haksoon, also from the Sejong Institute, said, "Canberra may be an attractive country for the North to launch its burgeoning all-round diplomacy."  However, Paik said, the DPRK still thinks it could get more aid from the US and Japan than from Australia.  The ROK welcomed the DPRK's diplomatic offensive, saying it will help ease tensions between the two Koreas, and boost prospects for their summit.  However, analysts cautioned that the DPRK could play its "cards of Italy, Australia and other foreign countries" to boost its position in its bargaining with the US and Japan.  Hong said, "the North could press for Washington and Tokyo to stop delaying aid, preconditioned during the earlier talks, and also to make more concessions, telling them 'Look, we are clearly changing.'" Agence France Presse ("NORTH KOREA'S PUSH TO END DIPLOMATIC ISOLATION GAINS SPEED," Seoul, 5/8/00) and Reuters (Bill Tarrant, "NKOREA IN ANOTHER STEP TO END COLD WAR ISOLATION," Seoul, 5/8/00)

DPRK- AUSTRALIA TIES

China Daily said that ROK media reported on May 1 that the DPRK and Australia have agreed to normalize ties following a 25-year freeze, reflecting efforts by the DPRK to break out of its diplomatic isolation.  The ROK-based Korea Herald reported that Australia and the DPRK agreed to re-establish diplomatic relations this month and that the Australian government would make an announcement soon. China Daily ("TIES FOR DPRK, AUSTRALIA," Seoul, 5/2/00, P8)

Juche Idea Study Society formed in Australia

Pyongyang, April 22 (KCNA) -- A meeting was held on April 11 in Melbourne to form an Australian Society for the Study of the Juche Idea on the occasion of Sun's Day. A letter to General Secretary Kim Jong Il was adopted at the meeting.

CANBERRA OPENS DOOR TO NORTH KOREA

The Australian reports that Australia is to restore full diplomatic relations with the DPRK next month, becoming one of the first Western nations to establish full relations with the DPRK.  The decision comes 25 years after the DPRK suspended diplomatic relations with Australia for reasons it has never fully explained, recalling its diplomats from Canberra and expelling the Australian mission in Pyongyang.  The thaw in DPRK-Australian relations began with a meeting of officials in Bangkok last June, followed by a meeting at the UN in New York in September between Australian Foreign Minister Alexander Downer and his DPRK counterpart Paek Nam-sun, and a visit by four Australian officials to Pyongyang in January.  The article stated, "The Australian move will reinforce efforts by South Korea, the US and Japan to open the closed Stalinist dictatorship to the outside world in the hope of encouraging reform." The announcement appears planned to coincide with Prime Minister John Howard's planned visit to the ROK next month.  Australia will be represented in the DPRK by Beijing ambassador David Irvine.  The article noted, "North Korea remains a brutal state where thousands have died of starvation in recent years.  But Canberra believes the policy of spurning Pyongyang has failed to reduce tensions in the region."  A spokesman for the ROK embassy in Canberra said that the ROK had encouraged Australia's decision to become more engaged with the DPRK. The Australian (Robert Garran, "CANBERRA OPENS DOOR TO NORTH KOREA," 4/15/00)

PENINSULA'S PERILS PUT HISTORY IN PERSPECTIVE

The Australian Financial Review stated that the proposed ROK-DPRK summit is unquestionably historic news, but it is hardly surprising news, and the meeting is unlikely to produce any rapid or substantial change on
the Korean Peninsula, although it might improve the atmospherics.  The article stated, "What the move to the summit reflects is the North's increasing concern over its deteriorating economic situation and the South's desire to head off the possibility of the collapse of a failed Stalinist North."  It added that despite the DPRK's increased diplomatic activities in recent months, nothing suggests that DPRK leader Kim Jong-il has been converted to "strategic and diplomatic sanity."  It argued that Kim Jong-il is desperate for food and other economic aid and for investment, and is driven exclusively by the imperative of propping up his "bizarre and reclusive" regime.  It noted that the PRC, struggling with problems of economic and political stability, has no interest in risking hostilities over a "failed state" with which it has declining relations, while Japan does not want to be forced into military responses that would alarm the ROK and the PRC.  It concluded that there thus is an international consensus for letting the DPRK "sink slowly" and to be reunified gradually with the ROK.  It predicted that reunification will be a long, uncertain and unpredictable process in which the summit is likely to be a small and tentative step. The Australian Financial Review (Geoffrey Barber, "PENINSULA'S PERILS PUT HISTORY IN PERSPECTIVE," 4/11/00)

SUNSHINE POLICY PRODUCES RAY OF HOPE

The Australian argued that the inter-Korean summit is the most important event on the Korean Peninsula in a decade, and a vindication of ROK President Kim Dae-jung's Sunshine Policy.  It is also the most important indicator yet of a possible fundamental change in the "bizarre, closed, Stalinist, cult-like state of North Korea."  Noting that DPRK leader Kim Jong-il has almost never travelled overseas and dislikes meeting foreigners, it argued that the real political logic behind the regime's reclusiveness is that if the population of the DPRK were exposed to the affluence and liberty of the ROK, they would quickly throw off the communist system.  It concluded, however, that the economic situation in the DPRK is now so grave that apparently its leaders are willing to take that risk. The Australian (Greg Sheridan, "SUNSHINE POLICY PRODUCES RAY OF HOPE," 4/11/00)

"A New Initiative in Australia-North Korea Relations"

By James Cotton March 29, 2000

The Following article is by James Cotton, Professor of Politics, Australian Defence Force Academy, University of New South Wales. Cotton reviews the recent developments in Australian-DPRK relations, and the possibilities of resumption of full relations.  He says that Australia is seeking to move away from isolation of the DPRK and to support US and ROK engagement efforts.  For its part, the DPRK seeks more Australian trade and investment, and to improve relations with those nations that contributed to the UN force that intervened in the Korean War.

DPRK FM spokesman on Korea visit of Australian FM delegation

Pyongyang, February 29 (KCNA) -- A spokesman for the DPRK Foreign Ministry today answered a question put by KCNA as regards the recent visit of an Australian Foreign Ministry delegation. He said: As reported earlier the delegation of the department of foreign affairs and trade of Australia headed by its first assistant secretary visited our country from February 22 to 26 last. During the visit talks were held at earnest atmosphere between the delegations of the foreign ministries of the two countries. At the talks both sides discussed the issue of normalizing the relations between the two countries, exchanged opinions on several matters of common interest including that of regional security and agreed to continue their contact in the future. During its sojourn the delegation visited the assistance projects of the United Nations Development Program (UNDP) and the World Food Program (WFP), expressed its understanding of the still strained food situation in our country and reaffirmed the position of the government of Australia on continuing its humanitarian assistance to our country in the future, too.

NORTH KOREAN OFFICIALS TO VISIT AUSTRALIA LATER THIS YEAR FOR RAPPROCHEMENT TALKS

The Korea Herald reported that ROK officials said on Tuesday that Australia and the DPRK agreed in principle to reinstate diplomatic relations.  A four-member Australian delegation, led by First Assistant Foreign Secretary Colin Heseltine, returned from a five-day trip to Pyongyang and briefed ROK officials on the results of the visit on February 27.  Heseltine, who met with DPRK Vice Foreign Minister Pak Kil-yon and other officials during the visit, said that he delivered his government's message to DPRK officials, which included an invitation to visit Canberra during the second half of this year. The ROK Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade quoted Heseltine as saying, "the North Korean officials expressed their strong hopes that the two countries would open embassies in each others' capitals as soon as
possible." The ministry official said that while in Pyongyang, the Australian delegation made a set of suggestions for the early resumption of diplomatic ties.  They called for the DPRK to improve relations with the US, maintain a moratorium on missile tests, and agree to participate in direct talks with the ROK and in the four-party dialogue. The Korea Herald (Kim Ji-ho, "N.K. OFFICIALS TO VISIT AUSTRALIA LATER THIS YEAR FOR RAPPROCHEMENT TALKS," Seoul, 02/29/00)

Australians Hold Talks in Pyongyang

(By JOHN SCHAUBLE, Sydney Morning Herald Correspondent in Beijing)

Australia has moved closer to resuming diplomatic ties with North Korea after the visit of a four-member delegation to Pyongyang. Led by a senior Canberra-based diplomat, Mr Colin Heseltine, the delegation returned to Beijing at the weekend cautiously hopeful that formal links may in time be reinstated. Mr Heseltine said a report of the talks, the first formal high-level contact in the North Korean capital since Pyongyang abruptly severed relations in 1975, would be given today to the Foreign Minister, Mr Downer. North Korean officials have been invited to visit Australia for further discussions later this year.

NO RUSH FOR DPRK-AUSTRALIA NORMALIZATION

The Sankei Shimbun reported that an Australian foreign ministry source said on February 17 that Australia would not urge normalization with the DPRK at talks on February 22 in Pyongyang. However, the official did say that Australia would ask the DPRK to reform its economy and engage in dialogue with the ROK. The official also said that the Australian government would discuss regional and global security, DPRK-Australia bilateral relations, and the DPRK's domestic issues at the talks. The official said the Australian government will also ask the DPRK to abandon its missile test. The report added that Australia contributed AU$2 million last year and has so far contributed AU$14.8 million to the Korean Peninsula Energy Development Organization and AU$20 million to food aid to the DPRK.The Sankei Shimbun (Shinsuke Sano, "NO RUSH FOR DPRK-AUSTRALIA NORMALIZATION," Sydney, 02/18/2000)

AUSTRALIAN DELEGATION TO VISIT N. KOREA WITH $3 MIL. AID PLAN

ROK officials said on February 17 that an Australian delegation will visit the DPRK next week with a US$3 million-aid plan to discuss re-establishing ties which have been suspended for the past 25 years. The two sides will participate in talks on reopening their embassies in each other's capitals. In a statement issued on February 16, Australian Foreign Minister Alexander Downer said that his government would provide US$3 million to the DPRK to help alleviate "the serious and complex" humanitarian crisis. Downer said the four-member Australian delegation, headed by Colin Heseltine, first assistant secretary at the Foreign Ministry's North Asia division, will also discuss help for the DPRK's agricultural industry and its participation in the Sydney Olympics. The Korea Herald (Kim Ji-ho, "AUSTRALIAN DELEGATION TO VISIT N. KOREA WITH $3 MIL. AID PLAN," Seoul, 02/18/00), Chosun Ilbo (Lee Ha-won, "AUSTRALIA GIVES FOOD AID TO NK," Seoul, 02/17/00), The Korea Times (Son Key-young, "AUSTRALIA TO HOLD TALKS WITH NK ON EMBASSY REOPENING," Seoul, 02/17/00) and Joongang Ilbo (Lee Chul-hee, "AUSTRALIAN MINISTER VISITS NORTH KOREA AFTER 25 YEARS," Seoul, 02/17/00)

AUSTRALIAN DELEGATION HEADS TO NORTH KOREA FOR FIRST TALKS IN 25 YEARS

Agence France Presse reported that a delegation of four Australian diplomats will visit the DPRK next week for the first high-level talks since 1975.  Australian Foreign Minister Alexander Downer said that Australia wants the DPRK to work harder on its relationships with Japan and the US and to extend its moratorium on long-range missile tests. An anonymous Australian official said, "we will be seeking to make a number of points, to urge further progress in North Korea's external relations, particularly with the United States and Japan. We expect to touch on the importance for North Korea to move ahead with economic changes, economic restructuring reforms which, after all, is at the root of this humanitarian crisis.  The way North Korea responds to these issues over time will of course influence the approach that we take with our dealings with North Korea." Agence France Presse ("AUSTRALIAN DELEGATION HEADS TO NORTH KOREA FOR FIRST TALKS IN 25 YEARS," Sydney, 2/17/00)

AUSTRALIA GIVES 6.0 MILLION DOLLARS AID TO NORTH KOREA

Agence France Presse reported that Australian Foreign Minister Alexander Downer said Thursday that Australia will provide A$6.0 million (US$3.9 million) in aid money to help alleviate the humanitarian crisis
in the DPRK. Downer said in a statement, "a serious and complex humanitarian crisis persists in North Korea. The United Nations reports food shortages still exist among the general population, despite some improvement in rice production this year. Malnutrition in children continues as a result of food shortages combined with health problems aggravated by diarrhoeal diseases."  Downer also said the UN had drawn up a strategy for a longer-term recovery and rehabilitation program. He continued, "as part of this strategy, Australia will provide 5.0 million dollars to the World Food Program for food aid and agricultural
rehabilitation programs." Australia will also contribute A$250,000 to UNICEF for vitamins and minerals for local production of corn soy, A$500,000 to the International Federation of Red Cross for health education and medicine, and A$250,000 to the World Health Organization for a tuberculosis program. Agence France Presse ("AUSTRALIA GIVES 6.0 MILLION DOLLARS AID TO NORTH KOREA," Sydney, 2/17/00)

AUSTRALIAN DELEGATION TO TRAVEL TO NORTH KOREA LATER THIS MONTH

Agence France Presse reported that a spokeswoman for Australia's foreign affairs department confirmed Thursday that Australia will send a senior delegation to the DPRK this month. The spokeswoman said that the makeup of the delegation had not yet been decided but was likely to be made up of senior diplomats.  The visit, the first since the two countries severed diplomatic relations in 1975, was expected to cover bilateral ties, Australian aid to the DPRK, and the DPRK's participation in the 2000 Sydney Olympics.  So Chung-on, an unofficial DPRK representative in Japan, said that the DPRK foreign ministry officials had been very active in seeking to improve relations with Australia. So stated, "Australia is a country located in the Pacific, and among the Western countries Australia is the nearest country to Asia.  Good relations between North Korea and Australia will give a good influence on the United States and especially Japan because both countries are located in the Asia-Pacific region." Agence France Presse ("AUSTRALIAN DELEGATION TO TRAVEL TO NORTH KOREA LATER THIS MONTH," Sydney, 2/3/00)

Guerilla Dynasty Diplomacy

The last time, it ended when the entire staff of the North Korean embassy were noticed checking onto a flight out of Canberra one Saturday. A letter arrived in the ordinary mail on Monday at the Department of Foreign Affairs, announcing that diplomatic relations were being broken off... Sydney Morning Herald: 11/12/99

NORTH KOREA LIKELY TO HOLD TALKS WITH AUSTRALIA ON REOPENING TIES

It is reported that ROK government sources said on December 7 that the DPRK and Australia will hold talks on reopening diplomatic relations in late February in the DPRK for the first time since ties were severed in 1975. Officials from the DPRK and the Australian embassies in Bangkok were in contact from late November to early December on improving relations before agreeing to meet in the DPRK capital.  A senior official of the Australian Embassy in the ROK also confirmed the meeting.  The two sides will discuss the issues related to humanitarian aid to the DPRK from Australia, DPRK's human rights record and weapons program and participation in the 2000 Sydney Olympics. The Korea Herald ("N.K. LIKELY TO HOLD TALKS WITH AUSTRALIA ON REOPENING TIES," Seoul, 12/08/99)

Australia Likely to Hold Talks to Normalize Diplomatic Relations with DPRK

North Korea and Australia will likely hold talks aiming to normalize foreign relations between the two countries in Pyongyang, January 2000. A source from diplomatic circles in Seoul said on November 5, "North Korean Foreign Affairs Minister Paek Nam-sun suggested to Alexander Downer, Australian Foreign Affairs and Trade Minister, in a letter sent by the North Korean minister to his counterpart at the end of November this year, that they hold talks in Pyongyang."

Canberra reportedly holds an affirmative position towards North Korea's proposal, although some high-ranking officials within the Australian government remain hesitant about accepting the proposal. Australia plans to send a response to the North Korean request in the near future. Major issues to be discussed in the talks between Pyongyang and Canberra would likely include the normalization of diplomatic relations between them, food aid, and education. Joongang Ilbo (Seo Jang-soo, "NK, AUSTRALIA LIKELY TO HOLD TALKS TO NORMALIZE DIPLOMATIC RELATIONS," Seoul, 12/05/99)

Foreign guests here for 50th anniversary of DPRK

Pyongyang, September 6, 1998 (KCNA) -- A delegation of the Australian Association for the Study of the Juche Idea led by its chairman Robert Pash a.k.a. Rashid Robert Pash, arrived here on September 5 to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the DPRK. Pash, one-time leader of Aryan Nations in Australia, operated the Australian People’s Congress and the Libyan-Arab Cultural Association which courted Australian politicians on Libyan junkets. Pash caused great consternation during the 1980s running Gaddafi-funded operations from Melbourne.