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SG: I had very good and constructive discussions with the Prime Minister. We covered lots of territory in a relatively short time. We talked about UN reform and I thanked him for the strong support he has given to the United Nations reform. We talked about his visit to Africa and the importance he attaches to African development. And an idea he had, I don't know whether he has announced it or not about setting up a Noguchi Prize. You all know about this Japanese scientist who died in Ghana who was held in greatest esteem in my country and we have a Noguchi Institute. And it's great, the Prime Minister and the Government of Japan will be setting up a prize to reward scientists who work on diseases in Africa. And I think this is important because there is a tendency for scientists to focus on the diseases of the rich because they can get back the returns and the medication will be sold easily, rather than working on diseases of the poor where resources are limited. So, it will be an important incentive for scientists.

We also discussed the North Korean nuclear issue and the issue and the abductees in North Korea as well. And of course, we also talked about the Korean-Japanese relationship, and the need to reduce tensions and improve relations. And I was able to, since I am just coming from South Korea, to share my impressions and observations with the Prime Minister who also would want to see a good relation between the two countries and indicated that during the five years since he has been in office, contacts and relationships have expanded, and seemed quite hopeful as to the future. And I think what is important is that after this conversation, I have a feeling that the door is open, it may require some important gestures to ease the way forward and remove the impediments that stand in the way of further development of this essential relationship.

Q: Did you discuss the Iranian nuclear development?

SG: It came up as we discussed the nuclear non-proliferation issue. And of course the Security Council is seized of the matter and now the package is being prepared which we would put on the table when the negotiations resume. And I hope it does resume and that all parties would go to the table with an open mind.