It is reported by Reuters.
The official was also asked about the readiness of US President Joe Biden to take some concrete steps to achieve progress in diplomatic contacts.
“This is a decision that only the DPRK can make,” he replied.
The American president earlier announced his readiness to meet with the leader of the DPRK, Kim Jong-un, if the leader of North Korea shows "sincerity" and "seriousness."
Biden also announced his readiness to assist the DPRK in the fight against the spread of coronavirus.
North Korean leader Kim Jong-un last week informed about the current state of emergency in the DPRK due to COVID-19.