A high-ranking official says the government does not expect the 19th inter-Korean Cabinet-level talks to produce substantial results.

The official is quoted as saying at a luncheon meeting with journalists Tuesday that he does not believe the two parties will reach a significant compromise.

The official added that it is not clear whether the North will send delegates for the ministerial talks to clarify its position on the launches or to protest Seoul’s move to withhold additional aid to the North.

The official stressed the significance for Seoul to deliver its positions on the launches and to encourage the North to return to the six-party nuclear talks.