The United Nations Security Council’s sanctions committee is preparing to ease restrictions on humanitarian aid projects in North Korea, according to diplomatic sources in Seoul cited by AFP on Friday. The move comes as the nuclear-armed country remains under multiple international sanctions for its weapons program, while facing a stagnant state-controlled economy and prolonged food shortages.

Sources said that 17 humanitarian projects are currently being implemented in North Korea by major international organizations such as UNICEF, as well as South Korea- and US-based NGOs. Analysts believe the relaxation will allow these groups to deliver nutritional supplements, medical equipment, and water purification systems to the country.

A South Korean foreign ministry official stated that Seoul continues efforts to deliver humanitarian assistance to North Korea without political considerations, expressing hope that Pyongyang will respond positively to initiatives for peaceful coexistence on the Korean Peninsula. The development was reported shortly after a senior South Korean official hinted at possible new progress on North Korea issues.