PM on protests against US military base plans

(12 May 2006)
1. South Korean Prime Minister Han Myung-sook walking into news conference
2. Cutaway of journalist looking at computer screen
3. Wide shot of news conference
4. SOUNDBITE (Korean): Han Myung-sook, South Korean Prime Minister:
"Since the Korean War, we stand on the basis of alliance with the US, for all the aspects including national security, defence, and economic development. It's essential to keep a solid tie with the US for stability and development of our society and the nation."
5. Han at podium
6. SOUNDBITE (Korean): Han Myung-sook, South Korean Prime Minister:
"The way to express one's opinion should be legitimate and peaceful. The last clashes cannot be accepted again."
7. Cutaway of cameraman
8. Wide shot of news conference
9. SOUNDBITE (Korean): Han Myung-sook, South Korean Prime Minister:
"Now, let's step aside and calm down. With an open mind, the government will make all the effort to solve this problem, cooperating with the residents."
10. Han leaving briefing room.
SORYLINE:
South Korean Prime Minister Han Myung-sook appealed for restraint on Friday as thousands of anti-US activists prepare to hold protest rallies this weekend against plans to relocate American military bases.
The appeal came two days before a looming showdown between police and anti-US activists near a new US military base in Pyeongtaek, about 65 kilometres (40 miles) south of Seoul, over the government's forced eviction last week of protesters occupying the site.
A similar protest rally is also scheduled to take place near the US Embassy on Saturday.
"The way to express one's opinion should be legitimate and peaceful," Han said.
Last week, authorities evicted protesters occupying the site by mobilising more than 10-thousand riot police and set up wire fences around it to keep outsiders away, resulting in injuries of more than 200 protesters and police.
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