The U.S. State Department reaffirmed American-South Korean cooperation in dealing with North Korea on Tuesday, saying the two nations are in "lockstep."
Spokeswoman Heather Nauert backed Vice President Mike Pence's remarks that the United States could use both "maximum pressure" and "engagement" regarding North Korea and its rogue nuclear program.
"We remain in close contact with the Republic of Korea, they are a close ally of ours," Nauert said. "We are in lockstep with the Republic of Korea as we are with Japan on these matters."
A reporter asked about the role of South Korean President Moon Jae-in and his desire for talks with the North.
"As I said just a minute ago, we have an ironclad relationship with President Moon, but not only with President Moon, but with Japan as well," Nauert said.
Nauert then mentioned past comments from Moon where he has discussed the need for North Korea to give up its nuclear weapons.
