Pyongyang: North Korean leader Kim Jong-un has stated that the future of relations with the United States is entirely contingent upon Washington's approach, while dismissing any possibility of dialogue with South Korea, as reported by North Korea's state media on Thursday.

According to Yonhap News Agency, Kim expressed these views as Pyongyang concluded its significant party congress, emphasizing that North Korea is committed to fully exercising its status as a nuclear-armed state. He indicated that there would be no barrier to improved relations with the U.S. if Washington abandons what he described as a hostile policy towards North Korea.

Kim reiterated the party's determination to enhance North Korea's nuclear capabilities, as reported by the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) during the ninth congress of the Workers' Party of Korea. This congress, which was the first since 2021, began last Thursday and lasted a week, aimed at reviewing past policy outcomes and establishing new objectives for the coming five years.

Kim further highlighted the significance of North Korea's nuclear status, stating that it plays a crucial role in deterring potential threats from enemies and maintaining regional stability. He described the nation's nuclear arsenal as both a "guarantee and safety device" for its security and interests.