U.S. to pressure N. Korea into dismantling nuclear, missile programs through sanctions, diplomatic measures
WASHINGTON, April 26 (Yonhap) -- U.S. President Donald Trump aims to pressure North Korea into dismantling its nuclear and missile programs through economic sanctions and diplomatic measures, top U.S. officials said in a rare joint statement Wednesday.
"North Korea's pursuit of nuclear weapons is an urgent national security threat and top foreign policy priority. Upon assuming office, President Trump ordered a thorough review of U.S. policy pertaining to the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK)," Secretary of State Rex Tillerson, Secretary of Defense James Mattis and Director of National Intelligence Dan Coats said in a joint statement.
"Today, along with Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Gen. Joe Dunford, we briefed members of Congress on the review. The president's approach aims to pressure North Korea into dismantling its nuclear, ballistic missile, and proliferation programs by tightening economic sanctions and pursuing diplomatic measures with our allies and regional partners," the statement said.
The officials also said that past efforts have failed to halt North Korea's unlawful weapons programs and nuclear and ballistic missile tests, adding that with each provocation, North Korea jeopardizes stability in Northeast Asia and "poses a growing threat to our allies and the U.S. homeland."
"We are engaging responsible members of the international community to increase pressure on the DPRK in order to convince the regime to de-escalate and return to the path of dialogue. We will maintain our close coordination and cooperation with our allies, especially the Republic of Korea and Japan, as we work together to preserve stability and prosperity in the region," the statement said.
"The United States seeks stability and the peaceful denuclearization of the Korean peninsula. We remain open to negotiations towards that goal. However, we remain prepared to defend ourselves and our allies," it said.
jschang@yna.co.kr
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