By Na Jeong-ju
Staff Reporter
President Lee Myung-bak called for social integration and reconciliation between different ideological groups, Monday.
He emphasized that the country should unite together to create new growth momentum and achieve the goal of becoming an advanced country.
The suggestion came as opposition parties are fiercely protesting the government's plan to build a global science and business belt on the site of Sejong City in South Chungcheong Province, instead of the originally planned administrative complex.
The revision is expected to remain a key source of contention between rival parties for some time with the June 2 local elections, regarded as a confidence vote on President Lee, approaching.
``What is most urgent is to eliminate internal conflict and mend the split between the parties,'' Lee said in a biweekly address to the nation, broadcast through KBS1 Radio, TBS and YouTube. ``Most of all, we should push for social unity and reconciliation.''
Recalling his recent visit to the National Cemetery in Seoul where the late former presidents are buried, Lee said the country should leave the past behind and work toward the future.
``South Korea has begun to draw the world's attention. Advanced countries look at us in surprise, and emerging ones look to us for hope,'' Lee said, citing the G20 Summit, slated for November in Seoul.
To address social division over the government's Sejong plan, Lee plans to increase meetings with social leaders in the coming weeks, the presidential office said.
Lee will invite governors and mayors of large cities to Cheong Wa Dae today to discuss Sejong City and regional development programs.