New Delhi, Sept. 22 -- North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has said he is open to resuming talks with the United States, provided Washington drops its demand for Pyongyang to abandon its nuclear arsenal.

Speaking at the Supreme People's Assembly yesterday, Kim stressed that nuclear weapons were non-negotiable and essential for his country's security.

"Personally, I still have fond memories of US President Donald Trump," Kim was quoted by the state media as saying, recalling their three meetings during Trump's first term. Analysts noted it was the first time Kim had mentioned Trump by name since his return to office in January.

Kim framed his remarks as a conditional invitation, suggesting dialogue was possible if Washington sought "peaceful ...