He also took the opportunity to ease concerns over North Korea's nuclear issue, which is seen as a factor keeping foreigners from investing in the South. "I know there are quite a few people who are worried about the North Korean nuclear issue. But this issue can only be solved peacefully through dialogue, so I firmly believe this is what will happen."

President Roh also met with officials who took part in Germany's reunification process. "I came to Germany for many reasons. It's extremely important for me to hear and learn about Germany's experience before and after its reunification."

Citing economic reforms that took place in China and Vietnam, the president said the South Korean people would be willing to help North Korea embrace changes even before reunification if the standoff over its nuclear weapons is resolved.

At a dinner with German politicians, the president praised the country for the way it is dealing with its history. The comments were aimed at Japan, which earlier this month approved history textbooks accused of glorifying its World War Two atrocities.

Pointing out how Germany continues to compensate its wartime victims and make history textbooks through consultations with neighboring countries, he said Germany has regained the trust of the international community.

Also in Berlin, the Foreign Ministers of South Korea and Germany shared the understanding that a peaceful and swift resolution of the North Korean nuclear issue is essential to securing peace for the global community.

South Korean Foreign Minister Ban Ki-moon in Germany, accompanying President Roh Moo-hyun, shared the view with German Foreign Minister Joschka Fischer that the North needs to return to the six-nation nuclear talks as soon as possible.

Mr. Ban praised Germany's commitment to providing humanitarian aid to North Korea, while Mr. Fischer pledged that Germany would continue to help secure peace on the Korean peninsula.

Arirang TV