His remarks came as South Korea and the United States apparently have been at odds in their approach to North Korea's denuclearization.

Seoul wants to expand inter-Korean economic cooperation as a way to help speed up the denuclearization of the North, while Washington says sanctions will remain in place until the North completely gives up its nuclear weapons program.

Washington has voiced discomfort with joint projects between the Koreas, such as connecting railways and roads across the border.

The minister in charge of inter-Korean affairs emphasized that North Korea will not be able to achieve its goal of economic development without progress in denuclearization.

"For the North to achieve its goal of economic development, there should be international cooperation. Without progress in denuclearization, the goal will be out of reach," he said. "The South Korean government explains this whenever it meets the North."

Cho also called for global cooperation in building peace in the region, while urging the international community to show an "inclusive" future to North Korea.

"It was close cooperation between the Koreas and the international community that helped us get over the perilous military tensions last year and launch the road toward peace on the Korean Peninsula," he said. "To have complete and lasting peace, we need more cooperation.

"When it comes to cooperation, it is necessary to make efforts to try to understand the stance and situation of others. It will be important to show North Korea an inclusive future in which it can grow as a member of the international community." (Yonhap)