President Clinton has expressed confidence in the policies of South Korea's president, Kim Dae Jung, on economic reforms and co-operation with North Korea.

Mr Clinton -- who's been holding talks with Mr Kim at the White House -- promised increased American trade and investment to help South Korea's troubled economy.

He said he would also support the country's policy of reconciliation with North Korea.

But he said the United States would not be easing sanctions against Pyongyang.

Mr Kim said the attention of the Korean people was on his meeting with Mr Clinton which he hoped would result in a closer partnership.