Energy Shortages Highlighted in Korean Nuclear Talks

North Korea’s need for energy is desperate


The talks this week may provide a further test of Pyongyang’s willingness to deal pragmatically with the other five countries in order to secure energy help, as well as the political and security benefits it would be owed if it denuclearizes under a February agreement.

Full six-party negotiations will resume in September, possibly followed by a first-ever meeting on the North Korean nuclear issue with foreign ministers, including U.S. Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice.

Even though the North Koreans face cold homes and offices, food shortages, and idled factories due to their energy crisis, few observers believe that the path to fulfilling the agreement will be straightforward. Future talks will encounter “obstacles and pitfalls,” Chun Yung Woo, South Korea’s nuclear envoy, predicted on Tuesday.

US News & World Report