Trump calls Xi Jinping to brief him on North Korea-developments
What's the story
US President Donald Trump has spoken with his Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping and briefed him on developments in ties with North Korea, the White House said. "The two leaders welcomed the prospect of dialogue between the United States and North Korea, and committed to maintain pressure and sanctions until Pyongyang takes tangible steps toward complete, verifiable, and irreversible denuclearization," it said. Here's more.
Information
President Trump spoke with number of world leaders: White House
During the call, Trump expressed hope that Kim might choose a "brighter path" for North Korea's future. White House Press Secretary Sarah Sanders said Trump spoke with several world leaders after he was briefed on North Korea by the visiting South Korean National Security Adviser.
Shinzo Abe
President Trump also discussed North Korea with Shinzo Abe
Trump earlier called Japanese PM Shinzo Abe, during which they agreed to continue to maintain pressure on North Korea until the time it takes tangible steps toward complete, verifiable, and irreversible denuclearization. The White House said this in a statement after the conversation between Trump and Abe to discuss the situation in North Korea and to continue the close coordination between the countries.
Details
Trump hopes Kim's invitation signals desire for brighter future
Trump and Abe assessed that the maximum pressure policy, together with international solidarity, brought them to this critical juncture wherein North Korea agreed to refrain from testing of nuclear weapons and missiles. "The leaders affirmed their strong intention to continue close trilateral coordination with South Korea to maintain pressure and enforce international sanctions (until N-Korea takes tangible steps towards denuclearization)," the White House said.