A senior government official familiar with North Korean affairs says bilateral talks between North Korea and the United States require consultation among related countries, adding that the timing of the talks should be chosen carefully.

The official told reporters on Monday that the nation needs to use prudence on the matter as Pyongyang is currently rejecting any form of dialogue. He suggested that bilateral talks between Pyongyang and Washington would be useful to bringing the North back to the six-party talks.

The official also said that although related countries are mulling various measures to stop the North from performing future nuclear tests, there is no effective way to guarantee a stoppage. He added that concerned parties need to take stock of the situation, as it is too early to pursue any action.