This statement follows a meeting between U.S. President Donald Trump and Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba, where both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to ending North Korea’s nuclear program.

According to the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA), North Korea emphasized that its nuclear capabilities are not meant to gain international recognition or to be used as a bargaining chip for financial gain.

They are viewed as essential for protecting the nation’s sovereignty and ensuring global peace.

Despite overtures from Trump to reconnect with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, the North has reiterated its focus on strengthening its nuclear arsenal.

Trump has expressed a willingness to engage with North Korea, highlighting his previously established rapport with Kim during earlier summits.

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Following their discussions, Trump and Ishiba released a joint statement underscoring their concerns regarding North Korea’s nuclear and missile programs and their commitment to complete denuclearization.