North Korea has reportedly demanded light-water reactors and energy aid in return for abandoning its nuclear program, reaffirming that it's prepared to scrap nuclear weapons development.

Quoting a prominent diplomatic source, the Japan-based Choson Sinbo said that North Korea conveyed to the other six-party nuclear talks countries its willingness to halt operation of its Yongbyon nuclear facility and allow the return of International Atomic Energy Agency inspectors as initial steps toward dismantlement.

The Choson Sinbo is the official newspaper of the pro-Pyongyang General Association of Korean Residents in Japan, or Chochongryon,

According to the newspaper, the North has consistently demanded that light-water reactors and energy aid should come first before it scraps its nuclear program. The newspaper said that their provision can be discussed as a condition for implementing the September 19th joint statement.

The newspaper added that the U.S. financial sanctions issue should not stand in the way of smooth progress at the six-party talks.