US Statement On N.Korea Policy

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Following in the full text of a joint statement on N.Korea issued by U.S. Secretary of State Rex Tillerson, Secretary of Defense James Mattis, and Director of National Intelligence Dan Coats.

Past efforts have failed to halt N.Korea's unlawful weapons programs and nuclear and ballistic missile tests.  With each provocations, N.Korea jeopardizes stability in Northeast Asia and poses a growing threat to our allies and the U.S. homeland.

N.Korea's pursuit of nuclear weapons is an urgent national security threat and top foreign policy priority.  Upon assuming office, President Donald Trump ordered a thorough review of U.S.Policy pertaining to N.Korea.

Today, along with Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Gen. Joe Dunford, we briefed members of Congress on the review.  The President's approach aims to pressure N.Korea into dismantling its nuclear, ballistic missile, and proliferation programs by tightening economic sanctions and pursuing diplomatic measures with our allies and regional partners.

We are engaging responsible members of the international community to increase pressure on the DPRK in order to convince the regime to de-escalate and return to the path of dialogue.  We will maintain our close coordination and cooperation with our allies, especially the Republic of Korea and Japan, as we work together to preserve stability and prosperity in the region.

The United States seeks stability and the peaceful denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula.  We remain open to negotiations towards that goal.  However, we remain prepared to defend ourselves and our allies.