The following are the key points of a joint statement released Saturday by Prime Minister Junichiro Koizumi and South Korean President Roh Moo Hyun after talks in Tokyo.
In the statement, the two leaders:
* supported the mutual policies of South Korea seeking peace and prosperity on the Korean Peninsula and Japan's efforts to normalize ties with North Korea after resolving the question of missile development, abductions and other issues.
* agreed not to allow North Korea to possess or develop nuclear weapons and to resolve the issue diplomatically and peacefully.
* emphasized that North Korea would deserve broad international assistance if nuclear and other related concerns are solved peacefully and comprehensively.
* expressed a strong desire for Japan and South Korea to take part in multilateral dialogue with North Korea.
* agreed to endeavor to begin negotiations soon for a free trade agreement.
* confirmed that Japan will make further efforts to realize early exemption of visas for South Koreans visiting Japan.
* confirmed that South Korea will open its doors to more Japanese pop culture.