Rice optimistic on North Korea talks

DALLAS, Aug. 7 (UPI) -- National Security Advisor Condoleezza Rice says she is optimistic talks will help convince North Korea to give up its nuclear weapons program.

The Voice of America reported Rice, speaking during a gathering of journalists in Dallas, said if North Korea wishes to be more involved in the economic benefits of the international community, it must first give halt its nuclear weapons program.

Rice said the six-way talks that are expected to be held in China will give the United States the opportunity to make that case to North Korea -- with the backing of diplomats from South Korea, Japan, Russia, and China.