The Associated Press has learned that he two governments have quietly engaged in back-channel diplomacy to address Americans imprisoned in the North and deteriorating relations between the two longtime foes.
People familiar with the contacts tell the AP that the interactions have done nothing to tamp down tensions over North Korea’s nuclear weapons and missile advances.
But they say the behind-the-scenes discussions could still be a foundation for more serious negotiation, including on North Korea’s nuclear weapons.
They say that could take place should President Donald Trump and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un put aside the bellicose rhetoric of recent days and endorse a dialogue.
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