October 27, 2003	Monday	Sha’aban 30, 1424

WASHINGTON, Oct 26: US Secretary of State Colin Powell said on Sunday that North Korea has contacted the US about an offer of written security assurances in return for ending its nuclear programme.

Powell told NBC television’s “Meet The Press” programme: the offer was “a step in the right direction” but held back from calling it a breakthrough in the nuclear crisis.

The “North Koreans have responded, at least through their press agency, as well as being in touch with US officials last Friday,” Powell said —AFP