U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, meeting with her Japanese counterpart in Washington says the United States hopes for improved ties with the people of North Korea, following the death of North Korean leader Kim Jong-il.
(SOUNDBITE) (English) U.S. SECRETARY OF STATE HILLARY CLINTON SAYING:
"We both share a common interest in a peaceful and stable transition in North Korea, as well as in assuring regional peace and stability. We have been in close touch with our partners in the six-party talks today."
Clinton held a news conference following a meeting with Japanese Foreign Minister Koichiro Gemba.
(SOUNDBITE) (English) U.S. SECRETARY OF STATE HILLARY CLINTON SAYING:
"We reiterate our hope for improved relations with the people of North Korea and remain deeply concerned about their well-being," Clinton added.
Gemba said Japan will work with the United States and South Korea.
(SOUNDBITE) (Japanese) JAPANESE FOREIGN MINISTER KOICHIRO GEMBA SAYING
"We also confirmed that we should maintain our close coordination among Japan, the United States and the Republic of Korea on the efforts toward de-nuclearization of North Korea, in particular to ensure concrete actions taken by North Korea."
North Korean Television said Kim Jong-il died on Saturday of "physical and mental over-work."
Deborah Lutterbeck, Reuters