Clinton Seeks to Re-Assure Japan on North Korean Stance

The subject of North Korea was prominent in talks in Tokyo Tuesday between U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton and top Japanese government officials. Clinton is on her first overseas trip in her new job and her first stop in Asia is America's long-time key ally in the region. Clinton is seeking to re-assure Japan the new administration in Washington will back its policies towards Pyongyang.

Clinton says she discussed "at great length" North Korea weapon's programs and the stalled six-way talks aimed at getting Pyongyang to give up its nuclear ambitions.

The timing of the talks is critical. The North Koreans are believed to be preparing another test of their longest-range missile and Pyongyang has hinted as much.

Addressing a joint news conference here with her Japanese counterpart, Clinton made reference to the possible missile test. She also gave Japan moral support on what is an emotional issue here - resolving the fate of Japanese citizens who were kidnapped and taken to North Korea.

"The possible missile launch that North Korea is talking about would be very unhelpful in moving our relationship forward," she said. "I know the abductee issue is of great concern here in Japan and I will be meeting with families later today to express my personal sympathy and our concern about what happened to those who were abducted."

Clinton says, if the North Koreans give up their nuclear weapons program and abide by previous agreements, the United States is willing to sign a peace treaty and normalize relations.