U.S. Assistant Secretary of State Kurt Campbell says free trade and robust economic engagement will remain a critical pillar for U.S. strategic engagement in the Asia-Pacific region.

Campbell said in statement before the House Subcommittee on Asia, the Pacific, and the Global Environment in Washington on Wednesday that the U.S. and South Korea will continue to forge ahead to hammer out agreements on issues related to their pending bilateral free trade agreement (FTA).

Campbell said that in addition to the significant potential economic benefits the FTA could generate, moving the agreement forward is also a crucial part of solidifying and updating the U.S. bilateral alliance with South Korea.

He said the U.S. will continue to support South Korea’s moves to play a bigger role in international relief and assistance efforts.