Brazil Diplomatic Document: North Korea Demands 'Preconditions' Before Nuclear Inspections

The Brazilian government has analyzed that North Korea seeks recognition as a nuclear-weapon state and is demanding the suspension of joint South Korea-US military exercises as a condition for dialogue with the United States. According to a report compiled by the Brazilian Foreign Ministry upon dispatching its ambassador to North Korea for the first time in a decade, Pyongyang insists that the US must first suspend or adjust regional alliances and military exercises. The report further analyzed that North Korea has failed to narrow its position, demanding security assurances and a non-aggression treaty as preconditions when the US seeks inspections of its nuclear facilities.

Brazil assessed Ri Thae-song, the foreign minister leading North Korea's diplomatic policy, as a hardliner in denuclearization negotiations, and analyzed North Korea's nuclear weapons as a means of regime defense and a cost-effective military strategy.

Brazil suggested areas for cooperation with North Korea, including parliamentary exchanges, humanitarian aid, and technical cooperation, specifying that medical cooperation could be a realistic option despite international sanctions.

Meanwhile, North Korea has long managed Brazil as a strategic friendly nation, and South Korea also expanded bilateral relations by upgrading its ties with Brazil to a 'strategic partnership' in February after 67 years through a summit meeting.