News Report: N. Korean Foreign Minister Denies Seoul Initiatives to Normalize Relations

North Korean Foreign Minister Ri Yong-ho held a short meeting with South Korean Foreign Minister Kang Kyung-wha and denied Seoul's recent initiatives aimed at normalization of the bilateral relations, media reported Monday citing its source.

TOKYO (Sputnik) — According to the Yonhap News Agency, the meeting took place on Sunday on the sidelines of the 50th ASEAN Foreign Ministers’ Meeting (AMM) and Related Meetings, which is currently underway in Manila.

In July, South Korean President Moon Jae-in proposed Pyongyang to hold military talks aimed at easing tensions across the border and resume the practice of families' reunions, which had been separated as a result of the 1950-53 Korean War. The specific proposals were sent to Pyongyang, however, no response from North Korea has been received.

During the meeting, the North Korean foreign minister accused his south Korean counterpart of lack of "sincerity" referring to Seoul's recent offer, the media outlet said.

On Saturday, the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) unanimously adopted the resolution tightening the economic sanctions against North Korea in response to July's launches of ballistic missiles by Pyongyang.

The new sanctions include the full ban on the export of coal, iron and iron ore from the North Korea. The restrictions are also imposed on the increase of the number of work authorizations for the North Korean nations by the UN member states. The new resolution also bans investment activities in relation to North Korea, such as joint ventures, and designates several additional individuals for a travel ban and assets freeze, as well as imposes an assets freeze on some entities.

The UNSC has repeatedly adopted resolutions condemning North Korea’s nuclear and missile tests. Despite that, Pyongyang has continued developing its nuclear and weapons program.

This story first appeared on Sputnik & is reposted here with permission.