President Roh Moo-hyun on Tuesday met visiting American football star Hines Ward and his mother Kim Young-hee.

In a luncheon at the presidential office, Roh asked Ward and his mother to better understand and pay more attention to their native country during their trip.

Presidential spokesman Kim Man-soo said the meeting was intended to commend Ward's efforts and passion and honor Kim's love and sacrifice for her son.

The 30-year-old Ward, who was named most valuable player of the Super Bowl in February, and his mother arrived in Seoul Monday for a ten-day visit.