US to enhance military presence in Asia

US Defense Secretary Robert Gates

Source: Press TV
http://www.presstv.ir/detail/183173.html

US Defense Secretary Robert Gates has stated that Washington is committed to maintaining its military presence in various regions in Asia.

Gates made the comments at the 10th Asia Security Summit in Singapore.

"Taken together, all of these developments demonstrate the commitment of the United States to sustaining a robust military presence in Asia -- one that underwrites stability by supporting and reassuring allies while deterring, and if necessary defeating, potential adversaries," Gates said.

He added that the US military presence in Asia would continue to expand, despite the protracted wars in Iraq and Afghanistan.

Gates' remarks come at a time of uncertainty over Washington's military spending.

President Barack Obama is currently facing mounting political pressure to deal with a budget deficit of 1.4 trillion dollars.

His administration is also struggling with a growing debt of 14-trillion dollars.

The US has patrolled Asia-Pacific waters since World War II.

It currently has bases in Japan and South Korea and close military ties with the Philippines, Thailand, Taiwan and Singapore.