Seoul: Unification Minister Chung Dong-young has urged North Korea to seize the opportunity for dialogue with the United States following President Donald Trump's expressed interest in meeting North Korean leader Kim Jong-un.
According to Yonhap News Agency, Chung emphasized that the South Korean government's stance on a potential North Korea-U.S. summit is not contingent on its likelihood but rather on the necessity of such a meeting. He expressed hope that North Korea would not overlook the chance for dialogue presented by Trump's interest.
Chung's appeal follows Trump's recent reiteration of his willingness to engage with Kim, as discussed during a meeting with South Korean Prime Minister Kim Min-seok in Washington last Friday. The Prime Minister quoted Trump as expressing curiosity about Kim's desire for dialogue with the U.S., labeling a meeting with Kim as beneficial.
Speculation is mounting that Trump may aim to resume summit talks with Kim during his scheduled visit to China from late March to early April for discussions with Chinese President Xi Jinping. The unification minister highlighted the importance of North Korea-U.S. summit talks, describing them as critical and beneficial for both nations. He noted that while Pyongyang seeks development rights and national security, Washington's interest lies in maintaining stability on the Korean Peninsula.
Chung also remarked on the implications for South Korea's present and future, reflecting on North Korea's expressed willingness to engage in talks with the U.S. Kim Jong-un, during the recent party congress, indicated that there is no reason not to have a positive relationship with Washington, provided the U.S. abandons its hostile policy toward North Korea.
The unification minister noted Trump's strong inclination to meet with Kim, suggesting that Trump's inquiries to the Prime Minister might stem from a curiosity about Kim's interest following a missed meeting opportunity last year during the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summit.
Despite these developments, Chung acknowledged there have been no specific communications between Pyongyang and Washington concerning the resumption of dialogue.