Unification Minister Jeong Se-hyun, answers questions from reporters in Seoul, Tuesday morning, before leaving for North Korea to attend the 14th round of inter-Korean ministerial talks.

The nuclear standoff is likely to take center stage during the three-day meeting officially beginning from Wednesday morning.

Seoul officials will try to seek an early opening of cross-border general-level military talks so as to reduce tensions on the peninsula.

But reviving a military channel of communication has not only been a sensitive issue but also one of the most difficult meetings to arrange.

Speaking to reporters prior to departure, Minister Jeong said he will try and persuade the North to realize the need to develop South-North military relations.

He also plans to propose forming a committee on social and cultural exchanges to promote economic cooperation and facilitate family reunions for separated kin.

The North Korean delegation headed by its new chief delegate Kwon Ho-ung is expected to ask for support in cross-border exchanges in the private sector and request for more food aid.

Arirang TV