APD | US, DPRK leaders focus on denuclearisation during Hanoi summit

By APD writer Alice

Hanoi, Feb. 28 (APD) - US President Donald Trump and Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK) leader Kim Jong-un had intensive meetings on February 28 morning, focusing on denuclearization on the Korean Peninsula.

US President Donald Trump has said he appreciates the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK)’s restraint from missile and nuclear tests.

Speaking before the one-on-one meeting with DPRK leader Kim Jong-un, Trump said the US does not want nuclear tests and reiterated that he is not hasty.

Previously, in brief talks with the media before the meeting in the morning of February 28 at the Hanoi Metrople Hotel, Trump said he hopes the two sides will have a great summit and the DPRK will become an economic power. 

He said the speed of the complete denuclearisation on the Korean Peninsula is not so important, but it is important that the two countries implement the agreement.

Meanwhile, DPRK leader Kim said he had a nice dialogue with Trump and expressed his hope for the summit to reach positive outcomes.

At an expanded meeting between the DPRK and US delegations later on the morning of February 28, Kim affirmed his readiness for denuclearisation on the Korean Peninsula.

He stressed that if he is not ready to do that, he will not be here at this moment, while applauded the US’s opening of a liaison office in Pyongyang.

Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump said the opening of the liaison office is a good ideal and the dialogue is a great success.

Talking to the press following the expanded meeting, the US President said he had productive discussions with the DPRK side.

“We are having very, very productive discussions,” he said, adding the two sides touched upon all issues. 

According to the US’s White House, the leaders will hold a joint statement signing ceremony at 2:05pm on February 28 after having lunch together. 

A news conference on the summit’s results will be held on 3:30pm the same day.-By Alice

(ASIA PACIFIC DAILY)