The talks were suspended seven months ago after North Korea conducted missile tests

North and South Korea have agreed to resume ministerial-level talks that were suspended seven months ago after North Korea conducted missile tests.

South Korean officials say the talks will resume February 27.

BizVantage – When knowing counts: Business, Investing, Technology.
Try the free, no-hassle 6 month trial!

The two sides met Thursday in the North Korean border city of Kaesong, following Pyongyang's agreement Tuesday to close its main nuclear complex within 60 days in exchange for fuel aid and other incentives.

In the past, the cabinet-level talks have focused mainly on South Korea's humanitarian aid to its impoverished neighbor. Their revival could lead to the resumption of rice and fertilizer deliveries, which Seoul suspended after Pyongyang tested missiles last July.

North Korea further strained ties with the South last October by conducting its first known nuclear test.

The international community is cautiously welcoming North Korea's pledge to take steps to end its nuclear program.

President Bush has defended the agreement reached at six-party talks in Beijing this week, calling it an "important step" toward disarming North Korea.

Mr. Bush said Wednesday the deal is "unique" because it brings together all of North Korea's neighbors, plus the United States.

Some of his political opponents have criticized the agreement, saying it could have been struck four years ago, before North Korea tested a nuclear bomb.