Pence heads to South Korea amid tensions with North

Vice President Pence plans to visit South Korea on Saturday amid growing tensions on the Korean Peninsula.

Pence’s trip will be his first official visit to the region and will also include stops in Tokyo, Jakarta, Sydney and Hawaii, according to CNN, .

Pence’s visit comes amid reports that North Korea is planning to test another nuclear missile. It is a crucial time for the White House as the U.S. explores new strategies to push back against North Korea’s growing nuclear program.

{mosads}

Officials told CNN that Pence will articulate the U.S.’s commitment to its regional allies.

A White House foreign policy adviser told the news network that the trip will give the vice president an opportunity to discuss U.S. policy with Asian allies.

Officials also said Pence is prepared to discuss sanctions when he meets with acting South Korean President Hwang Kyo-ahn and other leaders.

“If that is raised, we’re prepared to discuss it,” a senior administration official told the news source.