The Biden government has tried to resume talks with North Korea over the fate of its nuclear program, but its overtures have not been returned, the White House press secretary confirmed on Monday.
Jen Psaki, the press secretary, told reporters in an afternoon briefing that “we reached out to North Korean officials” but hadn’t heard from them, and confirmed a Reuters report over the weekend.
“We have a number of channels that we can reach as always,” said Ms. Psaki. “We also focus on advising many former government officials involved in North Korea policy, including several previous administrations. We have and will continue to work with our Japanese and South Korean allies to seek input and explore new approaches. We listened to their ideas carefully. “
“Diplomacy is always our goal,” said Ms. Psaki. “Our goal is to reduce the risk of escalation. However, so far we have not received a response. “
Mr Biden took office in the face of the increasing threat of nuclear proliferation around the world, including North Korea, which has expanded its arsenal of missiles, including those that could reach the United States.
His predecessor Donald J. Trump cultivated a personal relationship with North Korean leader Kim Jong-un – including being the first American president in 70 years of conflict and conflict to meet in person with a North Korean head of state – to advance disarmament. These efforts failed. North Korea continued to develop new weapons. A North Korean official said last summer that hopes for peace with South Korea and the United States had “turned into a dark nightmare.”
Mr Biden discussed the North Korean issue with South Korean President Moon Jae-in in early February and agreed to “closely coordinate” the matter, according to a reading of the appeal by the White House.
