Pyongyang: North Korea confirmed today that its nuclear weapons are not a “bargaining chip”, but are intended for actual use to defend its security and sovereignty.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, the North’s Central News Agency issued a statement rejecting recent statements by officials in NATO and the European Union who did not recognize it as a nuclear state. The statement criticized calls to completely and verifiably dismantle North Korea’s nuclear program, describing these calls as “illogical.”

In a related context, North Korea emphasized its firm position that nuclear disarmament will not be part of any negotiations with the United States if dialogue between the two parties resumes. The Agency explained that Pyongyang’s nuclear force is not intended for bargaining, but rather is part of its preparations to defend its sovereignty and the safety of its people in the face of any threats.