Bush, meeting with South Korean President Roh Moo-hyun, said he would back that move only after the hermit state’s leader gives up nuclear weapons and programmes. “I can’t make it any more clear, Mr President: We look forward to the day when we can end the Korean War,” he said in the meeting on the margins of an Asia Pacific summit here.

“That will happen when (North Korean leader) Kim Jong-Il verifiably gets rid of his weapons programmes and his weapons.”

The 1950-1953 Korean War ended with an armistice instead of a peace treaty, meaning the United States and North Korea are technically still at war.

After Bush cited signs of progress on the North Korean nuclear issue, Roh turned and asked: “I think I did not hear President Bush mention a declaration to end the Korean war just now.”

Did you say so President Bush?” he asked. “I said that it’s up to Kim Jong-Il whether or not we’re able to sign a peace treaty to end the Korean war,” Bush said adding “And we’re making progress towards that goal.” “If you could be a little bit clearer on your message, Roh pressed, as the US delegation stiffened and nervous laughter could be heard.