[SUMMIT] Kim welcomes opening of liaison office in Pyongyang

[REUTERS / YONHAP PHOTO]

HANOI -- Breaking from an intensive one-on-one meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump, North Korean leader Kim Jong-un welcomed the opening of liaison offices in each other's capital, which is seen as an initial process toward normalizing ties.

"I think that's something that's welcomable," Kim told reporters after a brief stroll in the garden of a Hanoi hotel that followed a half-hour private meeting with Trump. The American leader gave his quick endorsement, saying it's a good idea "both ways."

The two leaders need "more time" to discuss it, Kim said, adding "even one minute" is more precious. A U.S. liaison office in Pyongyang is inevitable if North Korea allows American experts to inspect and verify the shutdown of nuclear facilities.

Asked by a U.S. reporter about whether he is serious about denuclearization,
Kim said curtly: "If I weren't willing to do that, I wouldn't be here right now."

As the reporter raised a question about North Korea's dire human rights situation, Trump stepped in to divert attention. "We are discussing everything. We're having very, very productive discussions."

"No matter what happens we will ultimately have a deal that's really good for Chairman Kim and his country and for us. I think ultimately that's what's going to happen," Trump said. After holding a working lunch, the two leaders are set to sign a joint statement.

Park Sae-jin swatchsjp@ajunews.com

[SUMMIT] Kim welcomes opening of liaison office in Pyongyang

Related