I can note several examples:
The United States and Japan are implementing the 2015 defense guidelines to enhance regional security across a wider spectrum of operations, cooperating ever more closely in the Asia-pacific. Japan is also contributing to the relocation of some of our forces to Guam, a significant strategic hub for our regional operations.
We are working in unison with the Republic of Korea to defend against the growing threats posed by North Korea’s aggressive and destabilizing nuclear weapons and ballistic missile programs.
For the last 100 years WE and Australian forces have shared the battlefield in every major conflict. President Trump and Prime Minister Turnbull recently commemorated a key part of our shared history, our allied efforts in the battle of the Coral Sea. Our alliance remains relevant to regional stability in the 21st century.
Our combined interoperability with allied forces – enhanced through force posture initiatives – ensures we are prepared to cooperate during real-world crises. Deterrence of war remains our ultimate goal.
We are helping to train, advise, and assist Philippine forces in their fight against violent extremist organizations in the south. We also continue to support the modernization of the Philippine armed forces to address the country’s security challenges.
During this challenging fight against terrorists, we will stand by the people of the Philippines and we will continue to uphold our commitments to the Philippines under the mutual defense treaty.
Our oldest ally in the region, Thailand, has been and will remain instrumental in addressing a wide range of regional challenges.
Thailand has announced its intent to hold elections. We look forward to our long-time friend’s return to democratic governance and the expansion of our military-to-military relationship grounded in our everlasting confidence in the Thai people.
|
