US Envoy Says Washington Not Interested in 'Endless' North Korea Talks Without Results(2/2)

Washington says the banking sanctions are a law enforcement matter, unconnected to the nuclear issue, and that the only way out of the sanctions is for North Korea to demonstrate its days of illegal financing are over. However, Pyongyang, which denies any wrongdoing, only returned to the nuclear talks in December after Washington agreed to discuss the financial issue.

Ambassador Vershbow says there should be significant progress toward implementing North Korea's 2005 pledge before President Bush leaves office in January 2009. Vershbow praised South Korea for responding firmly to Pyongyang's October test of a nuclear device by withholding most aid to its impoverished neighbor. Seoul and Washington have differed over the past few years on how to deal with Pyongyang. The Bush administration is uncomfortable with South Korea's engagement policy aimed at coaxing the communist North into opening up more to the world.

The ambassador in his speech also said the relations between Seoul and Washington, two long-time allies is strong and capable of adjusting to new challenges.

The U.S.-North Korea financial talks are expected to continue at least through Wednesday.