Devyani Khobragade case: US softens tone, but still no apology or dropping of charges

A change in status does not mean "a clean slate from past charges" and "Receiving diplomatic immunity does not nullify any previously existing criminal charges. Those remain on the books," Psaki said.

"Nor does obtaining diplomatic immunity protect the diplomat from prosecution indefinitely" Psaki stressed, suggesting that Khobragade's shift to UN would not necessarily keep her safe from the charges already filed.

The State Department, had "not yet received an official request through proper channels for re-accreditation" of the Indian diplomat, she said. But if and when it comes, grant of a different status "doesn't mean it wipes out past discretions."

UN spokesman Farhan Haq Friday said they UN "received notification to register Ms Devyani Khobragade as a member of the Permanent Mission of India to the United Nations," and "is processing this request as per its standard procedures."

Meanwhile, Psaki said, US Secretary of State John Kerry looked forward to having a conversation "soon" with Khurshid, who was "not available" when he called him Wednesday night before speaking with National Security Advisor Shivshankar Menon to express his regret at the situation.

"That's not scheduled. Obviously, we're lining up schedules on that."

Asked given the kind of exchanges between the two countries over the issue, she was confident that it will be resolved, Psaki again pointed to Khurshid's comments.