The U.S. State Department says it remains ready for talks with North Korea.<br />The comment was made in response to the North Korean foreign ministry's recent statement demanding Washington come up with a proper counterproposal by the end of the year for negotiations on dismantling the North's nuclear weapons.<br />The State Department Spokesperson said the U.S. is ready to engage in constructive discussions with North Korea for complete denuclearization and lasting peace.<br />The spokesperson added the U.S. will continue to invite its counterpart for talks.<br />
