BEIJING - Foreign Ministry spokesman Hong Lei on Monday called on the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) and the Republic of Korea(ROK) to maintain dialogue and improve relations.

Hong made the remarks at a regular press briefing in response to the DPRK's decision to delay a reunion for families separated by the 1950-53 Korean War and to postpone working-level talks with the ROK to discuss the resumption of tours to Mount Kumgang.

The DPRK announced its decision Saturday to delay the humanitarian event until a normal atmosphere for dialogue and negotiations with the ROK is created, according to media reports.

Hong said it is in line with the common interests of the DPRK and the ROK for the two sides to improve relations and achieve reconciliation and cooperation.

He called on the two sides to cherish the hard-earned momentum and seize the opportunity, maintain dialogue and contact, and make joint efforts to improve relations.