The United States expressed Monday concern about the announcement of Venezuelan President Hugo Chávez on his visit to North Korea to execute agreements that could involve transfer of military technology.

"I am not sure about what he is expecting from the North Koreans," US Department of State Spokesman Sean McCormack replied about the visit to Pyongyang disclosed by the Venezuelan ruler.

"Certainly, if this involves transfer of military technology, given the background of North Korea, it would be a matter of concern," he added.

At the end of a two-day official visit to Panama last Friday, Chávez said that he would head for the isolated country headed by Communist leader Kim Jong-Il to enter into bilateral agreements on technology and scientific matters. However, he did not provide further details, AFP quoted.