President Lee Myung-bak hosted a luncheon for Nicholas Cardinal Cheong Jin-Suk and other leaders from the Roman Catholic Church from noon to 1:20 at Cheong Wa Dae. Over lunch, the President listened to their opinions about ways to stabilize the current political situation.

In connection with the recent political developments, Cardinal Cheong suggested to the President that he pay more heed to popular opinion.

President Lee responded by saying, “In some part, I have not tried hard enough to carefully read public sentiments. I realize that I cannot convince the people of whatever I intend to do unless they open their minds.”

President Lee also added, “Admittedly, we should have paid more attention to ethical standards to meet the expectations of the people in the personnel selection process.”

With regard to the lawmakers’ participation in the candlelight vigils, Cardinal Cheong said, “Lawmakers are elected by the people. Their essential duty is to work in the National Assembly for the people. The National Assembly is the place where they are supposed to be.”

The President said, “The prompt opening of the new National Assembly is essential as there are a number of economic proposals waiting for parliamentary action. Also, when a cabinet change occurs, the new ministers will have to be confirmed by the legislature without delay so there will be no vacuum in Government administration.”

Separately, President Lee gave instructions to the U.S.-bound mission that will be negotiating with Washington concerning follow-up measures tothe recent bilateral beef import accord. The mission is headed by the Vice Minister of Food, Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries.

The President told them, “It is very important to ensure that beef from cattle 30-month old and older will not be imported under any circumstances. It will not be easy, but I urge you to do your best to realize what the people want in this matter.”