The U.S. and North Korea are reportedly focusing on including the dismantlement of the North’s Yongbyon nuclear facilities along with the U.S.' corresponding measures in a potential agreement when their leaders meet in Vietnam later this month.

According to diplomatic sources in Seoul on Monday, Stephen Biegun, the top U.S. envoy on North Korea, negotiated the terms during talks with his North Korean counterpart Kim Hyok-chol in Pyongyang last week.

Out of a three-step approach, verified dismantlement of the Yongbyon facilities, a comprehensive declaration of other facilities, and complete denuclearization agreement with Seoul, Washington is focusing on the first phase.

In return, the U.S. is reportedly considering a formal declaration to end the Korean War, expanding humanitarian aid in North Korea, and setting up a liaison office, but has left sanctions relief out until the denuclearization process becomes irreversible.

Biegun said talks in Pyongyang were productive and that he was confident both sides will stay committed, which suggests North Korea did not demand immediate sanctions relief for talks to proceed. 

In exchange for the demolition of the Yongbyon facility, it has been speculated the U.S. could provide expanded sanctions exemptions.

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