The United States says it is holding discussions with China over the forced repatriation of North Korean escapees.

State Department spokeswoman Victoria Nuland told reporters on Wednesday that the U.S. is addressing refugee difficulties as part of its regular dialogue with Beijing. She added that the U.S. hopes “all countries would live up to international obligations” concerning this issue.

Regarding U.S.-North Korea talks in Beijing on food aid, Nuland said the two sides “had a relatively productive first day,” and that they will meet again on Thursday.

Nuland said the U.S. hopes discussions on food aid will be finalized during the talks in Beijing as the U.S. would like to start sending nutritional assistance.