New york: The U.N. Security Council's sanctions committee on North Korea has decided to grant a sanctions exemption for humanitarian aid projects in the reclusive state, a diplomatic source revealed. The unanimous decision by the UNSC 1718 Committee, which oversees sanctions against Pyongyang, was made on Thursday to approve the waiver for 17 humanitarian projects led by South Korea, the United States, and international organizations.

According to Yonhap News Agency, the decision followed discussions between South Korean Foreign Minister Cho Hyun and U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio in Washington. A senior South Korean government official indicated a "new development" in North Korea-related issues, suggesting the exemption could act as a "good-faith gesture" and a potential starting point for reengagement with North Korea.

The exemption process had experienced delays, pending for months since the first half of the previous year. The approval marks a significant move in facilitating humanitarian efforts in North Korea amidst ongoing international sanctions.