Unification Minister Chung Dong-young says the United States has pledged support for inter-Korean business cooperation involving the Gaesong Industrial Complex in North Korea.

Speaking to South Korean correspondents in Washington Wednesday, Chung said the United States clearly expressed its support and efforts for the success of the complex.

He declined comment, however, on reports that Washington urged Seoul to reduce aid to Pyongyang, only saying the United States acknowledged the achievements and positive effects of inter-Korean economic exchanges.