Denuclearization talks between the US and North Korea have stalled since their second summit in Hanoi in February. Pyongyang is increasing pressure on Washington for an acceptable solution by end of this year. North Korea has been seeking a lifting of punishing sanctions, but the United States has insisted Pyongyang must dismantle its nuclear weapons program first.

North Korean and US officials met in Stockholm last month, but the meeting broke down. Early this week, North Korea’s chief negotiator Kim Myong-gil said the US suggested a working-level meeting early next month.