KUALA LUMPUR -- North Korea noted "differences of opinion" with Japan Tuesday as the two countries resumed talks aimed at normalizing their diplomatic ties in the face of growing global concerns over Pyongyang's covert nuclear weapons program.

The two-day talks in the Malaysian capital come just days after the United States, Japan and South Korea issued a joint statement demanding North Korea give up its quest for nuclear weapons, and amid an ongoing row over Pyongyang's kidnapping of Japanese citizens.

"In particular, we would like to discuss kidnapping and security issues, including a nuclear issue, as the highest priorities at today's talks," Katsunari Suzuki, Japan's ambassador in charge of normalization talks, said in opening remarks.

"We will make our utmost efforts to realize the normalization that will be welcomed not only in Northeast Asia but also in the international community," he said. "We would also like you to make your maximum efforts and cooperation for that goal."

Jong Thae-hwa, North Korea's roving ambassador and head of Pyongyang's delegation, said in reply that North Korea and Japan differ on many issues.

"There are differences of opinions over issues between the two countries," he said.

Jong also pointed out as an irony the fact that Japan and North Korea had to come so far for the talks despite their geographical proximity.

"Despite the fact that we are so close for each other, we come so far for the talks," the ambassador said.

Suzuki and Jong shook hands before their opening remarks, but the two exchanged neither greetings nor smiles.

The Japanese ambassador has said the normalization process will be broken off if North Korea refuses to give up its nuclear program.

The Kuala Lumpur meeting marks the first normalization talks between the two sides since Prime Minister Junichiro Koizumi and North Korean leader Kim Jong-il held a landmark summit in Pyongyang on September 17.