The chief presidential aide for security affairs says the upcoming inter-Korean ministerial talks will not include discussions on economic cooperation.

In an interview with MBC radio Monday, Song Min-soon said that in the past the two Koreas discussed economic cooperation at ministerial talks, but the upcoming round cannot be a venue to discuss such issues.

The South will instead address the North’s missile tests and boycott of the six-way nuclear talks as key issues and delay further discussions on rice and fertilizer aid.

Song says the government will decide on its next move once North Korea gives an acceptable explanation for its missile launches and boycott of the six-party nuclear talks.

The presidential aide added that the government will consult with other nations, including the United States, in implementing step-by-step measures with North Korea.