But we also know a stable region requires us all to work together, and that is why we support greater engagement with ASEAN. Because no single bilateral relationship can get us where we want to go. Only working in concert can take us forward.
This year marks the 50th anniversary of the birth of ASEAN, and the 40th anniversary of relations between ASEAN and the United States. In America, we are proud of our four decades of working together, and we believe that our best days are ahead. The future of ASEAN is bright, and that is good for all pacific nations.
Here I note Indonesian president Widodo’s statement at the 2016 East Asia summit: “ASEAN must protect our home and ensure sustainable peace and stability… hence we need a strong and comprehensive regional security architecture that could advance ASEAN centrality and more effectively contribute to security and regional stability.”
Finally, our third effort is to strengthen US military capabilities in the region, because security is the foundation of prosperity, enabling the flow of commerce.
The United States seeks to integrate diplomatic, economic, and military approaches to regional concerns, enabling secretary tillerson and our diplomats to address tough issues from a position of strength.
It is the role of the military to set the conditions for diplomacy to succeed. The United States has consistently endeavoured to use its armed forces to support stability to the Asia-pacific, and to reinforce our diplomatic efforts.
In our congress, Senator McCain, Congressman Thornberry, and other American legislators have identified a need to strengthen US operational capability in the region.
And I look forward to working with them to develop an Asia-pacific stability initiative that complements the ongoing, large-scale investments in our budget to improve and reinforce US military capabilities across the region.
Currently, 60 percent of all US navy ships, 55 percent of army forces, and about two-thirds of fleet marine forces are assigned to the US pacific command area of responsibility. Soon, 60 percent of overseas tactical aviation assets will be assigned to this theater.
The congressional initiative will expand investment in the department of defense, strengthening the rules-based order by better positioning us to support regional stability in a changing region.
By further strengthening our alliances, empowering the region, and enhancing the US military – in support of our larger foreign policy goals – we will continue to promote the rules-based order that is in the interest of the United States and all of the countries in the region.
Thank you and I look forward to your questions.
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