N. Korea likely to conduct nuclear test, but U.S. prepared for all contingencies: State Dept.

By Byun Duk-kun

WASHINGTON, Oct. 24 (Yonhap) -- North Korea is believed to be continuing preparations for a nuclear test while the U.S. is set to face any threat posed by the recalcitrant country, a state department spokesperson said Monday.

Department Press Secretary Ned Price said the U.S. also remains open to engaging in dialogue with Pyongyang.

"Our concern regarding the potential for another North Korean nuclear test, which would be its seventh, has been consistent for some time now. We assess that the DPRK is preparing its Punggye-ri test site for what would be its seventh test," Price said in a daily press briefing, referring to North Korea by its official name, the Democratic People's Republic of Korea.

"We are preparing for all contingencies in close coordination with our partners and allies around the world," he added.

The spokesperson noted steps to be taken by the U.S. may include "adjustments" to U.S. defense posture.

"We are prepared to make both short- and longer-term adjustments to our military posture as appropriate in responding to DPRK provocation and as necessary to strengthen both defense and deterrence to protect our allies in the region," he said.

The remarks came as Deputy Secretary of State Wendy Sherman began a three-day visit to Japan earlier in the day for bilateral and trilateral talks with her South Korean and Japanese counterparts.

Price said much of Sherman's ongoing trip to Tokyo will be "dedicated to discussing the challenge that the DPRK poses to the region."

The department spokesperson also reiterated U.S. commitment to engage in dialogue with the North.

"We have made consistently clear that we harbor no hostile intent towards the DPRK. We remain open to dialogue. We remain open to diplomacy," he said.

"At the same time, our commitment to the security of our personnel in the region, of our treaty allies is ironclad," added Price.

bdk@yna.co.kr
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