U.S. President Barack Obama proposed in a message to President-elect Park Geun-hye that the two countries expand their alliance not only to tackle the threat of North Korea but also to deal with global issues including human rights, poverty, the environment and nuclear proliferation, her aides said Thursday.

The presidential transition team unveiled Obama’s message delivered Wednesday by Kurt Campbell, U.S. assistant secretary of state for East Asian and Pacific affairs.

“Together, we face significant challenges from North Korea, and our continued close coordination will be key to effectively addressing these and other priorities,” Obama said.

U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton also sent a congratulatory letter, offering continued cooperation in bilateral, regional and global issues.

By Shin Hyon-hee (heeshin@heraldcorp.com)