N. Korean Media Reports Top Diplomat's Trip to Sweden

North Korean and Swedish foreign ministers have met for talks ahead of a possible summit between the leaders of the U.S. and North Korea.
The North's Korean Central News Agency said on Friday that Foreign Minister Ri Yong-ho left for Sweden on Thursday to meet with his Swedish counterpart Margot Wallstrom to exchange views on bilateral ties and matters of mutual interests.
Sweden's Foreign Ministry also confirmed on Thursday that Ri will visit Sweden for two days to hold talks with the Swedish foreign minister.
The ministry said that the talks which end on Friday will focus on Sweden's consular responsibilities as a protecting power for the United States, Canada and Australia. It didn't elaborate, but the meeting has raised speculation that the two sides may have discussed the release of three Americans detained in the North.
Meanwhile, the U.S. State Department dismissed speculation that the North and the U.S. may meet in Sweden ahead of a proposed summit between U.S. President Donald Trump and North Korean leader Kim Jong-un.
Department spokeswoman Heather Nauert said on Thursday that there is a meeting taking place between North Korea and the Swedes, but Washington is not sending any representation.
Nauert added that there is no indication that Ri’s visit to Sweden will touch upon Washington’s interests with Pyongyang.
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