The European Union's new foreign affairs chief says North Korea is not a top priority.

Speaking to reporters after a confirmation hearing before the European Parliament on Monday, Catherine Ashton said the North Korean nuclear issue is important but, at present, it is not a priority that requires careful review.

Ashton, the new EU high representative for foreign affairs and security policy, stressed the need to coordinate with the U.S. on matters related to the North.

The issues Ashton cited as of the utmost importance included Iran, Afghanistan, peace in the Middle East and EU ties with Russia and the U.S.