North Korea is calling for direct talks with the US over its reported plan to test-fire a long-range missile. The US has insisted it will negotiate only through six-nation talks. US Ambassador to South Korea Alexander Vershbow spoke in Seoul on Tuesday.

• US Ambassador to South Korea Alexander Vershbow: “To develop a delivery system for nuclear weapon only creates more serious situation and that’s why we urge North Korea not to test and come back to six-party talks.”