WASHINGTON (AP) — Former New Mexico Gov. Bill Richardson says the State Department should not be nervous about a visit he’s making to North Korea with Google’s executive chairman, Eric Schmidt.

The State Department has advised against his making the trip. But Richardson says he doesn’t work for the U.S. government.

Richardson said Friday he’s concerned about an American citizen detained in North Korea, Kenneth Bae, and has spoken to Bae’s son. The former U.N. ambassador and U.S. energy secretary points out he has helped negotiate the release of American service members and hostages in the past. Richardson says he’s also concerned about what the U.S. believes is covert nuclear testing.

Richardson tells CBS “This Morning” it’s a private, humanitarian mission and says the State Department shouldn’t be so worried.

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