US Signals Flexibility on N. Korea

Determined to end North Korea’s nuclear weapons program, the US could be willing to take steps toward normalizing relations as soon as disarmament begins, reports “The Financial Times.” US sanctions on North Korean financial assets discouraged other banks from working with the rogue state, and this is bringing the struggling nation back to the negotiating table. Still, the Bush administration insists that disarmament must be permament and that North Korea reveal all research sites. US officials also note that resuming relations would have the practical effect of allowing inspectors into North Korea to monitor progress of disarmament. – YaleGlobal