U.S. Department of State Spokesperson Tammy Bruce on March 19 holds a regular briefing in Washington. (Screen capture from department's website)

By Yoon Sojung

The U.S. Department of State has responded to the addition of Korea to the list of sensitive countries by the U.S. Department of Energy, saying Washington "greatly values the close relationship with Seoul on scientific research collaboration and looks forward to continued robust cooperation."

Spokesperson Tammy Bruce on March 19 said this to a regular briefing at the department in Washington when asked about the reason for the classification and the Trump administration's stance.

She began her answer by saying, "I have to refer you to the Department of Energy… That's the Department of Energy designation."

"The United States greatly values the close relationship we have with the Republic of Korea on scientific research collaboration, and we look forward to continued robust cooperation," she added. "So that's my answer there."

Earlier on March 18, Joseph Yun, acting U.S. ambassador to Korea, said the inclusion was unrelated to Seoul's diplomatic or security policy.

The same day, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs also said in a statement and news briefing, "This issue is related to security, not foreign policy," adding, "We are closely consulting with the U.S."

Meanwhile, Minister of Trade, Industry and Energy Ahn Dukgeun will visit Washington from March 20-21 for talks with key figures including the U.S. secretaries of commerce and energy. He will seek a speedy resolution to Korea's inclusion on the list.

arete@korea.kr