The United States says it is looking for fundamental changes in North Korea's behavior.

State Department spokesman Philip Crowley told reporters Monday that if such changes are seen, then Washington will react accordingly.

Crowley stressed that the U.S. wants to see North Korea live up to its international obligations, cease its provocative behavior and take on a more constructive posture. If the North does so, Crowley said the U.S. will be in a position to evaluate whether discussions can be fruitful.

On China’s proposal to hold emergency consultations on the North, Crowley said that Washington would "continue to consult with others, including China, on a future course” then added that the immediate focus is on stopping the North’s provocations.

Crowley also noted that the North has failed to assume responsibility for the casualties that resulted from the sinking of the “Cheonan” naval ship and its recent artillery attack on Yeonpyeong Island.