US – North Korea Relations: Diplomatic Talks With Washington Set To Continue 'In A Few Weeks'

The North Korean government said Monday that it will resume diplomatic negotiations with the United States "in a few weeks" over dismantling its nuclear program, while calling for U.S. security and economic concessions.

An official from the North Korean Ministry of Foreign Affairs has said that it is "fortunate that the U.S. repeatedly expressed its positions to resolve issues through dialogue and negotiations."

"The U.S. will decide whether the [Democratic People's Republic of Korea]-U.S. negotiations become a window of opportunity or an occasion to precipitate the crisis," the official said.

"Only when the threats and obstacles that endanger the security of our system and hamper development are removed clearly and unquestionably can a discussion on denuclearization can be held," the official added. The official didn't specify the threats and obstacles.

North Korea is seeking reduced sanctions and limiting U.S.-South Korea joint military exercises, which Pyongyang views as preparation for an invasion.

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un and President Donald Trump have met several times over the past two years on the denuclearization issue, without having reached a comprehensive agreement. The two leaders have had a curious relationship, sharing "beautiful" letters, and even meeting each other on North Korean soil.

The new bond comes after Trump called Kim "rocket man" in front of the U.N. General Assembly in September 2017. Kim has called Trump "mentally deranged."

Trump may want a nuclear deal with North Korea for his presidential legacy. He has been criticized for not being tough enough on North Korea due to its numerous missile launches in previous months, which Asian countries such as Japan view as a threat to its security.