"For things to progress smoothly, there must be improved relations between the United States and North Korea, between North Korea and the European Union and between North Korea and Japan, " he told the New York Times.

CNN: North Korea reportedly backs U.S military presence

"There must be no inertia between now and early 2001: young people's life chances need to be improved as soon as possible, " said the minister.

BBC: London colleges lack 'strategy'