WASHINGTON, USA: The United States expressed hope for renewed dialogue with North Korea following the return of Swedish diplomats to Pyongyang.
Sweden, representing US interests in North Korea due to the absence of direct diplomatic relations, resumed operations after its mission was closed during the pandemic in 2020. A Swedish team returned on September 13, aiming to restart regular embassy functions.
US State Department spokesman Matthew Miller welcomed the move, acknowledging Sweden as the US’s “protecting power” in North Korea. He expressed hope that the return of foreign diplomats would encourage diplomacy and constructive engagement, while also urging North Korea to reopen its borders to international humanitarian workers. Sweden maintains diplomatic missions in both Seoul and Pyongyang and plays a role in overseeing the armistice between the two Koreas.
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