Voice of America (VOA) says the United Nations may designate a new envoy for direct dialogue with North Korea who may be able to discuss political issues as well as humanitarian ones.

Citing an official from the office of United Nations secretary-general, VOA's Korean Service said Thursday that direct dialogue between the U.N. and Pyongyang has been at a standstill since former UN special envoy Morris Strong resigned.

Strong was appointed by former Secretary-General Kofi Anan. He stepped down from the post due to a corruption scandal in 2005.

The official said the world body is closely discussing the matter with North Korean representatives.

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