Carter: U.S., Japan Both ‘Thinking Big’ on Strategy

By Karen Parrish

American Forces Press Service

TOKYO – Deputy Defense Secretary Ashton B. Carter told reporters here today that as the United States rebalances its defense strategy toward the Asia-Pacific, “our central and anchoring” ally, Japan, also is beginning a strategic shift.

The deputy secretary, who arrived here July 20 as part of a 10-day Asia-Pacific tour, has met with Japanese government leaders including Foreign Minister Koichiro Gemba, Defense Minister Satoshi Morimoto and Parliamentary Senior Vice-Minister of Defense Shu Watanabe. Carter said those meetings left him feeling Japan’s government leaders are expanding their strategic thinking “both functionally and geographically.”

The deputy secretary spoke here during a press briefing with a number of regional media representatives. He said U.S. leaders welcome Japan’s growing strategic interests, and will “work with the government of Japan and the Japanese Self-Defense Forces to realize that vision.”

“We’re both, in a sense, thinking big and thinking strategically at the same time,” he added. “That has great potential.”

Carter noted his visit to Asia-Pacific nations, which will also include stops in Thailand, India and South Korea, follows similar trips by President Barack Obama, Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton and Defense Secretary Leon E. Panetta.

Those visits, Carter noted, focused on articulating the new strategy, which the president announced in January. His own presence here, he added, is aimed at getting the gears turning.

“They sent me here because my job as the chief management officer of the Department of Defense is to implement that vision,” the deputy secretary said. “I came to this region to meet with our friends and partners and allies -- [and] to meet with and assess our own forces throughout the region -- with an eye to carrying out that turning of the strategic corner.”

Carter said while growth is slowing in the United States’ defense budget, the necessary resources are available to fund the new Asia-Pacific focus.

“All of the capacity that has been tied up in Iraq and Afghanistan for the last 10 years is capacity that we can focus now on the Asia-Pacific region, and that’s a tremendous amount of capability,” he said.

Within the existing defense budget, Carter added, “We are shifting the weight of our innovation and investment from counterinsurgency-type warfare to the kinds of capabilities that are most relevant to the Asia-Pacific theater.”

He noted putting the strategy in place is “just a matter of making it happen, and deciding which specific things to do.”

Defense leaders are determined to make those decisions in consultation with U.S. friends and allies, the deputy secretary said.

Carter said Japan is America’s central regional ally and has been for many decades.

“Naturally I come here first, to Tokyo,” he said.

The U.S. and Japan, he added, have “tremendous momentum in many, many areas: joint planning, technology sharing, [and] joint exercises and training.”

Carter traveled to Japan from Guam. He noted that Guam, an island U.S. territory, offers important training opportunities for both U.S. and Japanese forces.

“In both of our countries, it becomes more and more difficult to do the kind of training that requires access to wide areas of territory,” he said. “And that is possible in Guam, so that’s a great opportunity for both of us.”

Carter added that Guam is also important to both nations as a consequence of the “2+2” agreement U.S. and Japanese defense and diplomatic leaders signed in April.

Under that agreement, nearly 5,000 U.S. Marines currently stationed on the Japanese island of Okinawa will transfer to Guam, while the United States will return to Japan much of the land in Okinawa those forces now use.

“The 2+2 agreement with respect to the movement of Marines to Guam was a great milestone,” Carter said. “From my point of view I’m very optimistic that there’s momentum on both sides to implement the agreement. I think that’s the way forward.”

The U.S. and Japan have long debated how to relocate many of the Marines on Guam, Carter said, noting the issue was settled “by the 2+2 agreement and I think that is a very good thing.”

Carter added that Guam represents more than just a new site for the rotational deployment of Marines.

“There’s a large Air Force base, there’s a large Navy base; Japanese forces have been to each and exercised from each, and those are important capabilities irrespective of the Marine Corps issue,” he said.

Carter has also taken part on discussions with the new commander of U.S. Forces Japan, Air Force Lt. Gen. Salvatore A. Angelella, who took command July 20. The deputy secretary told reporters the general “will be a great partner for the government of Japan.”

In every way, the deputy secretary said, there is a lot of forward progress in the U.S.-Japanese alliance.

“It’s a great time to be here, [and a] great time of new purpose and new horizons,” Carter said.

U.S., South Korea, Japan to Conduct Naval Exercise

American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, June 14, 2012 – The United States, South Korea and Japan will conduct a two-day, trilateral naval exercise June 21-22 in the waters south of the Korean Peninsula, the Pentagon announced in a news release issued yesterday.

The exercise will focus on improving interoperability and communications with the South Korean navy and the Japan Maritime Self Defense Force, which can facilitate cooperative disaster relief and maritime security activities in the future, according to the release.

The three navies will conduct this exercise beyond the territorial waters of any coastal nation, the release said.

The United States will then conduct a routine carrier operation with the South Korean navy in the Yellow Sea immediately after the trilateral exercise June 23-25, according to the release.

The George Washington Carrier Strike Group will make a port call in Busan, South Korea, after completing the two exercises, the release stated.

Statement by Secretary of Defense Leon E. Panetta on the One Year Anniversary of Great East Japan Earthquake

“As the world marks one year since the Great East Japan Earthquake, I would like to express my admiration for the strength and resilience of the Japanese people.  Last fall, I had the opportunity to visit Japan and see the determination of the Japanese people who are rebuilding their country even stronger than before.

“The U.S. military was proud to support the Government of Japan in responding to this disaster, and the success of these efforts is a testament to the strength of our alliance.  In my visits with U.S. service members and Japanese forces, I was struck by the close bonds of partnership and friendship that exist between our militaries, bonds that have grown even closer in the aftermath of the tragedy.

“On this anniversary of that tragic event, we remain committed to assist our Japanese friends to rebuild, to deepen our partnership with the Japanese Self Defense Forces, and to strengthen our great alliance.  Japan is more than just an ally.  It is also a great friend of America.  Together we will continue to forge ahead to achieve peace, prosperity, and a better future for both of our countries.

“I also want to thank the thousands of men and women in the Department of Defense who immediately answered the call and brought relief to Japanese and American citizens struggling amidst the devastation.  Within moments of disaster striking, the United States armed forces, under the leadership of Adm. Robert Willard, were fully mobilized to support the Japanese government in its response and recovery efforts.

“I believe the greatest service we can do is when we are able to reach out and help our fellow human beings in need.  Together, Japanese and American forces helped those in need, and solidified the friendship between our two great nations for generations to come.”

USS Mustin arrives in Ishikari

By Ensign Margaret Morton, USS Mustin Public Affairs

ISHIKARI, Japan (NNS) -- The Arleigh Burke-class guided missile destroyer USS Mustin (DDG 89) arrived in Ishikari for a port visit Feb. 6.

Mustin's arrival corresponds with the start of the 63rd Annual Snow Festival held in Sapporo. While in port, Mustin Sailors will have the opportunity to join tourists from around the world to admire the amazing works of art the festival has to offer in the form of ice.

In addition to viewing the ice sculptures, Sailors also plan to partake in some of the many winter sports offered in the region such as skiing, snowboarding, and bushwalking.

"I'm looking forward to seeing the many statues and trying the regional cuisine. This is my first Japanese port outside of Yokosuka," said Gas Turbine Systems Technician (Mechanical) 1st Class Hugo J. Perez. "I'm excited for an outstanding cultural and culinary experience. I especially want to try the seafood."

The Ishikari port visit gives the Mustin crew a chance to interact with the Japanese people in order to build upon the existing relationship with one of America's most important allies in the Pacific region.

"I anticipate the officers and crew to join in the many events associated with the festival and to gain an even greater understanding of the country and people that we partner to protect with the Japanese Self Defense Force," said Mustin's commanding officer, Cmdr. Scott A. Tait.

Mustin is one of seven destroyers assigned to Destroyer Squadron 15, forward-deployed to Yokosuka, Japan, as part of the U.S. 7th Fleet.

'War Eagles' Meet with Japanese Partners

By Lt. j.g. Michael Glynn, VP-16 Public Affairs

NAHA, Japan (NNS) -- Sailors from the 'War Eagles' of Patrol Squadron (VP) 16 met with fellow maritime patrol professionals from the Japan Maritime Self Defense Force (JMSDF) to strengthen their working relationship Dec. 16.

VP-16 Commanding Officer, Cmdr. Brad Rosen, met with the commanding officer of the JMSDF VP-5, Capt. Akira Ichida, exchanged gifts and sat down to familiarize themselves prior to the next few months of combined operations.

"The chance to sit down with our counterparts from VP-5 is valuable for both parties," commented Rosen. "The JMSDF are extremely professional and it's a pleasure to work with them. We're proud to fly and work side-by-side."

"We are very happy to continue our cooperation with VP-16. Strong coordination is important for future operations," Ichida said to the group of U.S. naval officers.

Sailors from VP-5 operate the Japanese version of the P-3C Orion. The squadron is based at Naha airport in Okinawa and is very active in patrolling the waters around the southern Japanese islands. In accordance with Japan's pacifist constitution, JMSDF forces observe the exclusive economic zone and conduct routine reconnaissance missions.

"It's a pleasure to meet and work with our JMSDF partners," said 'War Eagle' liaison officer, Lt. Phil Jenkins.

The 'War Eagles' of VP-16 and 'Pegasus' team of VP-5 are currently conducting maritime patrol operations in the western Pacific. VP-16 conducts security, surveillance, and reconnaissance missions in support of Commander, U.S. 7th Fleet and is currently deployed to Kadena Air Base in Okinawa from its homeport Naval Air Station Jacksonville, Fla.

Japanese Artist Thanks USS Essex for its Role in Operation Tomodachi

By Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Terry Matlock, USS Essex Public Affairs

SASEBO, Japan (NNS) -- A Japanese painter expressed his appreciation of forward deployed amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2) and its role in Operation Tomodachi by presenting a painting to the command, Dec. 13.

Takashi Shima said he was inspired after taking a photo of Essex while he was on a tour of the JDS Kongo (DDG 173) and decided that he wanted to paint the ship as a way to express his gratitude. The water color painting shows Essex at sea during flight operations with several CH-53E Sea Stallions flying overhead.

"I think the Japanese people should thank the American military forces for all the help we received after the earthquake and disaster," said Shima. "Not all Japanese people are in a position to say thanks enough so I did the painting as my part."

During Operation Tomodachi, Essex joined USS Germantown (LSD 42) and USS Harpers Ferry (LSD 49) for three weeks in assisting Japan with humanitarian relief after a 9.0 earthquake and subsequent tsunami struck the northeastern part of the country March 11. The 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit embarked on board Essex distributed supplies by air and sea. There were 218 aircraft and landing craft in support of reconnaissance and relief distribution missions. Additionally, more than 166,000 pounds of supplies were delivered to the shore of Japan by the Essex Amphibious Ready Group.

Capt. David Fluker, USS Essex commanding officer, received the painting on behalf of the crew.

"It was a privilege to have Mr. Shima aboard Essex and a true honor to receive this wonderful painting on behalf of Essex crew," said Fluker. "Mr. Shima's gift of his beautiful artwork is another example of the mutual respect and natural bond between two great maritime nations. It is symbolic of our friendship with our Japanese partners and indicative of the maritime traditions that we share."

After being received by the commanding officer in his cabin, Mr. Shima toured the Essex and had a firsthand look at the ship that inspired him to create his piece of art. He stated he was impressed with the multiple capabilities of the Essex and he was pleased, after a closer look, that he represented Essex correctly in his painting.

Japan, U.S. Naval Ships Complete Dynamic Koa Kai Training

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Daniel Barker, Navy Public Affairs Support Element West, Detachment Hawaii

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Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam (NNS) -- Hawaii-based Destroyer Squadron 31 completed a week of dynamic training as ships returned to Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam Nov. 17-18, from the latest Koa Kai exercise in Hawaiian waters.

It was the first time U.S. Navy ships were joined by a Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF) surface ship for a Koa Kai exercise. The JMSDF helicopter destroyer JS Kurama (DDH 144) participated in the exercise that began Nov. 10.

"The Koa Kai exercise provided intense and comprehensive training for all of us," said JMSDF Capt. Shinji Maruzawa, commander, Escort Division 2. "It was remarkable how well we worked together, demonstrating good teamwork and sharing skills. We have great support from our U.S. Navy friends and partners here in Hawaii."

Kurama joined guided-missile destroyers USS O'Kane (DDG 77) and USS Chafee (DDG 90); frigate USS Crommelin (FFG 37); and Military Sealift Command dry cargo and ammunition ship USNS Washington Chambers (T-AKE 11). The surface ships of CDS 31 are joined by assets from Commander, Submarine Force, U.S. Pacific Fleet, Helicopter Squadron Light 37, Commander Patrol and Reconnaissance Wing 2, and the Royal Canadian Air Force 407 Long Range Patrol Squadron.

"This is the first time we've had a Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force ship participate in Koa Kai," said Capt. Dave Welch, commander, Destroyer Squadron 31. "They were a fantastic addition to the exercise. This gives us an opportunity to exercise in another area that our deployed ships deal with, operations with coalition and allied partners."

Hawaii-based surface combatants regularly deploy to the Asia Pacific region and often train with international partners while on deployment. Koa Kai demonstrates the Pacific Fleet commitment to forward readiness and prepares Middle Pacific ships to meet current and future challenges.

"The opportunity to work together gives our crews the chance to see that there is strength in the diversity of capabilities that our allies and partners bring and gives us a chance to work closely with them in a controlled training environment," Welch said. "It also gives our allies confidence in the rigor that we put in our preparations to go forward in deployed areas."

Sailors aboard the JMSDF and U.S. Navy ships participated in visit, board, search and seizure (VBSS) drills; tactical training; anti-submarine warfare and live-fire ammunition exercises; and other drills and training.

"We just returned from major exercise Koa Kai, which translates as 'Sea Warrior' from the Hawaiian language," said Firecontrolman 2nd Class Deborah Rosen, USS O'Kane. "It's a major test of the entire ship's battle readiness. It's challenging. It has to be. It's meant to be. It's designed to be. It's to make sure that we're really going to be ready to go out on deployment and accomplish our mission."

Units participating in Koa Kai 12-1, the first of two such training events in FY 12, conducted integrated flight operations, anti-surface and anti-submarine training and dynamic ship maneuvers.

Koa Kai supports the U.S. Pacific Fleet's mid-Pacific surface combatant operational employment program, which calls for all Hawaii-based surface combatants to use the strategic location in the Middle Pacific to conduct intermediate and advanced training in a multi-ship environment. The training helps each ship prepare to deploy and respond quickly to support the Maritime Strategy.

White Beach Festival Brings Communities Together

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By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Casey H. Kyhl, Amphibious Squadron 11 Public Affairs

WHITE BEACH NAVAL FACILITY, Okinawa (NNS) -- White Beach Naval Facility hosted a two-day festival for more than 10,000 people to promote friendship and foster mutual appreciation and understanding between the Okinawa community and U.S. service members, Nov. 12-13.

Visitors interacted with Sailors, enjoyed cultural performances and explored the facility.

"This festival is a way to open the base up to the people of Okinawa," said Capt. Rich Weathers, commander, Fleet Activities Okinawa. "It lets them see what we do here and that we are just as big of a part of the community as anything else they see outside the gates."

Festivities began at 11 a.m. and lasted until 10 p.m. both days.

"We were expecting rain throughout the weekend but everything really turned out well for the festival," said Jeff Short, White Beach Naval Facility's complex manager. "We had a lot of static displays and games to keep the kids entertained, offered different types of great food and put on a few very successful musical performances."

The U.S. 7th Fleet and III Marine Expeditionary Force (MEF) bands each performed twice during the festival, playing both traditional and contemporary music.

"It was pleasure to come out and play for such an enthusiastic crowd," said Lance Cpl. Jeshua Sosa, a percussionist in the III MEF Band.

For a few hours each day forward-deployed amphibious dock landing ship USS Germantown (LSD 42) and Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force Hyuga-class helicopter destroyer JS Ise (DDH 182) were open to the public for guided tours. Each ship had more than 1,000 visitors.

"It's hard to believe how big these ships are," said Lisa Agowa, a tour participant on Germantown. "The tour helped me understand a little of what Sailors go through during all those days at sea."

Dragon boat racing has been a popular event in parts of Asia for thousands of years and has recently gained support all over the world. The White Beach Festival gave 14 11-person teams the chance to prove that they were the best in Okinawa.

"I think the dragon boat races were the biggest draw this year," said Weathers. "We haven't included dragon boat races in the White Beach Festival in 21 years and everyone was excited to have them back. This type of racing is very important to the people of Okinawa so this is a great way of encouraging them to come visit this part of their community."

Pentagon Monitors Thailand Flood Situation

By Jim Garamone
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Oct. 25, 2011 – Defense officials are carefully monitoring the situation in Thailand as that nation faces the worst flooding it’s had in more than 50 years.

Recent flooding across Thailand has killed more than 360 people, and more than 2.5 million people have been affected, Thai government officials said.

Defense Secretary Leon E. Panetta, who is traveling in Asia, has expressed serious concern about the disaster, said Pentagon Press Secretary George Little, who is with Panetta’s traveling party.

The defense secretary “offers his deepest condolences to all those who have suffered as a result,” Little said in a written statement. “The secretary is closely monitoring the situation, and applauds the Thai government’s quick response to this major natural disaster. Thailand is a close ally, and we will continue to work with Thai officials to assess what they may need in the form of assistance from the United States.”

When the flooding started, U.S. Pacific Command ordered the George Washington Carrier Strike Group, which was conducting a port visit to Singapore, to get underway earlier than scheduled to pre-position in case assistance was required. The command sent a 10-Marine humanitarian assistance survey team from Okinawa, Japan, to Bangkok, Thailand, to assess the situation in the country.

After meeting with Thai officials, the team determined that U.S. military assistance was not needed.

“The Thai government and military have led a tremendous effort to protect and help its citizens during the recent flooding,” Pentagon officials said.

The Navy ships have been released to participate in a previously scheduled annual exercise with the Japan Maritime Self Defense Force, Pentagon officials said. The destroyer USS Mustin now plans a previously unscheduled port visit to Laem Chabang, Thailand, to conduct community service events and military-to-military engagements.

Pacific Command officials are working with the U.S. Embassy in Bangkok to determine if U.S. military assets are needed to support the Thais.

Navy Surgeon General Recognized by Japanese Ministry of Defense

From Navy Bureau of Medicine and Surgery Public Affairs

TOKYO (NNS) -- The Navy Surgeon General was recognized by the Japanese Ministry of Defense Aug. 9 for his work in supporting the Department of the Navy and the Japanese Maritime Self Defense Force (JMSDF) and for his contributions to improving global public health.

In a ceremony held at the Japanese Ministry of Defense headquarters, Japanese Adm. Masahiko Sugimoto, Chief of Staff for Japan's Maritime Self-Defense Force presented Vice Adm. Adam M. Robinson Jr. with a letter of appreciation on behalf of Minister of Defense Toshimi Itazawa. Robinson was the 55th person to receive such an honor in the Ministry of Defense's history.

Robinson was recognized for his contributions in improving the exchange and interoperability between medical commands of the Navy and JMSDF both in Japan and abroad. He was also thanked for his work during earthquake relief efforts, developing an extern program for JMSDF medical officers at U.S. Naval Hospitals in Japan and for his medical support to JMSDF personnel deployed to Djibouti.

"Thank you on behalf of the Japanese people for all your support following the earthquake," said Sugimoto. "Your medical support during your tour as the U.S. Navy's Surgeon General has helped not only the people of Japan, but the world."

Robinson said he was especially honored given his close ties with Japan following several tours in the country, including serving aboard the aircraft carrier USS Midway (CV 41) and at U.S. Naval Hospital Yokosuka.

"I am very honored to receive this recognition on behalf of the men and women of Navy Medicine," said Robinson. "I appreciate the true camaraderie, collegiality and friendship that exists between Navy Medicine, the U.S. Navy and the Japanese Maritime Self Defense Force. The relationship we have with [the] JMSDF medical team has benefited both nations greatly and we look forward to our continued partnership."

As the Navy Surgeon General and Chief, Bureau of Medicine and Surgery, Robinson leads 63,000 Navy Medicine personnel who provide healthcare support to the Navy and Marine Corps, their families and veterans in high operational tempo environments, at expeditionary medical facilities, medical treatment facilities, hospitals, clinics, hospital ships and research units around the world.

Japanese Sailors Welcomed Aboard USS Nitze for PASSEX

By Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Apprentice Jesse Monford

USS NITZE, At Sea (NNS) -- The Arleigh-Burke class guided-missile destroyer USS Nitze (DDG 94) conducted a Passing Exercise (PASSEX) with the Japan Maritime Self Defense Force (JMSDF) from July 29 to Aug. 2, which tested communication capabilities and offered a chance for a professional exchange in the Atlantic Ocean.

The PASSEX was conducted to aid communication between three U.S. ships and three Japanese ships while giving them realistic situations they may encounter while working together in the future. The exercise also provided a valuable opportunity for Sailors to learn about life and work on the other country's ships, as Japanese officers and enlisted sailors from aboard the Japanese ship Asagiri (TV-3516) embarked Nitze during the exercise.

"It's my first time being aboard a foreign ship," said Hiroshi Nakajima, a Radar Technician attached to the Asagiri. "The people are friendly, the food is different here. My ship is old. The Nitze is high-tech."

Many Japanese sailors said that the lifestyle aboard a United States ship differs greatly from that of their own. For example, operations aboard a typical Japanese ship's bridge differs from the bridge of USS Nitze. Nakajima said that the manning and protocols were instructional to observe.

"I think that this is a great opportunity for us to learn from them and from them to learn from us." said Master Chief Michael J. Mahoney, command master chief of USS Nitze. "It is well worth it to share experiences with other forces and our allies.

Nitze's crew is pleased that they were given the opportunity to step up and do the exercise, said Mahoney.

The series of exercises that were conducted covered maneuvering, communication, and other types of general training. Two other U.S. Navy ships, guided-missile frigate USS Taylor (FFG 50) and guided-missile cruiser USS Vicksburg (CG 69), participated in the exercises as well.

All three of the Japanese ships will pull in port in downtown Norfolk, where the JMSDF sailors will have an opportunity to explore the city and crews from both nations can continue their work to build a stronger relationship.

Mullen: Partnerships Vital to Pacific Security Strategy

By Karen Parrish

American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, July 25, 2011 – America’s national security strategy priorities for the Asia-Pacific region encompass both a burgeoning relationship with China and enduring security commitments to other countries there, the nation’s senior military officer said today.

Navy Adm. Mike Mullen, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, told reporters at the Foreign Press Center here that his recent visit to China and the trip his Chinese counterpart, Gen. Chen Bingde, made here in May form “a basis for ongoing dialogue and some very tangible, common challenges we can continue to work on together -- things like piracy and terrorism and disaster relief operations.”

President Barack Obama and Chinese President Hu Jintao have agreed to advance military relations between the two countries, Mullen said, while acknowledging that “very real, very substantive issues” inhibit close cooperation and partnership between the two nations.

The Chinese object to U.S. arms sales to Taiwan and U.S. reconnaissance flights in international airspace, Mullen said, while the United States objects to the use of coercion in settling disputes in the South China Sea, or any attempt to inhibit freedom of navigation and access to the global commons -- international waters and airspace -- as well as cyberspace.

Disagreement is a healthy part of any relationship, the chairman said, expressing the hope that a better relationship between the U.S. and Chinese militaries would help to improve the level of trust between the two nations.

“We have a long way to go in our relationship with China,” Mullen said, “and no recent history of strategic trust upon which to build it.”

But building a better military relationship with China cannot dominate U.S. planning and force posture decisions in the Asian-Pacific region, the admiral said, citing the U.S. relationships with South Korea and Japan as vital.

South Korea has steadfastly supported U.S. security efforts around the world, including in Afghanistan, and “our commitment to their defense and to security on the peninsula remains unwavering,” the chairman said.

Mullen added that he believes the North Korean regime will again attempt to provoke hostilities.

“Thus far, [South Korean] leaders have shown commendable restraint, but I think it would be a grave mistake for the North to perceive this restraint as a lack of resolve or, in fact, of the capability of our alliance to defend itself,” he said.

Mullen said the United States will continue to work with Japanese Self-Defense Forces to improve their operational capabilities.

“This was my first visit back to Japan after the devastating earthquake and tsunami last March, and I was struck by just how fast and how well the hardest-hit areas were recovering,” he said. “I was also glad to hear from Japanese leaders that U.S. military contributions to the relief effort were of the size and scale they most needed.”

Mullen said the United States-Australia alliance is another model for “interoperability, transparency, and meaningful combined full-spectrum capabilities.”

“We will make it better with more joint operations, exercises and exchanges,” he added.

U.S. strategy also includes seeking expanded military cooperation with India on nonproliferation, safeguarding the global commons and countering terrorism, the chairman said.

“And we will expand our military security cooperation and exercises with the Philippines, Thailand, Vietnam, Malaysia, Pakistan, Indonesia, Singapore and other states in the region,” he said, “working with them to address common threats to their sovereignty and security.”

The United States also encourages other nations to strengthen partnerships with their neighbors, he said.

“Relationships matter -- not just bilateral relationships, but collective ones, whether they include the United States or not,” Mullen said. Multilateral relationships improve understanding, sharpen interoperability, strengthen regional norms and encourage responsibility in addressing shared security challenges, he added.

The U.S. military will increase its emphasis on work with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations and other multilateral forums, he said.

“We are and will remain a Pacific power,” Mullen said. “Our military is and will remain the long arm of that power. We will not shrink from old or new responsibilities. And we most certainly will not shrink from every opportunity to enhance peace and stability in this vital part of the world.”

Mullen: U.S.-Japan Alliance Serves as Model for Others

By Lisa Daniel

American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, July 15, 2011 – The chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, on his first visit to Japan since it suffered a devastating earthquake and tsunami in March, today praised the U.S.-Japanese alliance and said the two nations must expand such relations throughout the Pacific region.

Navy Adm. Mike Mullen, speaking at a news conference from the U.S. Embassy in Tokyo, offered condolences to the Japanese people in the aftermath of the natural disaster and said the United States still is committed to helping its ally however it can. His visit is part of an East Asia tour this week that included trips to China and South Korea.

“Watching from afar, I must also say that I was inspired by the dignity, the strength, the grace and resilience with which Japanese citizens responded to the shock,” he said. “If ever there was by any people a finer display of character and courage under such circumstances, I simply haven’t seen it. And so, thank you, as well, for the power of your example to the world.”

Mullen praised the response of the Japanese Self-Defense Force for its skill and professionalism in helping Japanese citizens following the disaster. “For our part, the United States military was proud to support your troops and to labor side by side [and] day and night with them -- on the ground, in the air, and at sea -- as we jointly battled the elements and the unspeakable destruction.”

The collaboration of the Japanese and U.S. forces following the earthquake is a testament to the countries’ strong relationship, the admiral said, adding that his trip to Japan was meant to underscore the U.S. commitment to a partnership with Japan.

“We know you, and you know us,” he said. “And, together, we have served not only the defense of Japan, but the cause of peace and stability in the Asia-Pacific region. And it is the strength of that friendship I am here to reaffirm. In every meeting I will attend, in every discussion I will have, I will convey my government’s commitment -- and that of my military -- to expanding and improving our bilateral relations.”

Noting that the United States is a Pacific power, Mullen said it will seize every opportunity to promote peace in the region. “Of course, should your women’s soccer team defeat ours in the World Cup this weekend, we may have to seriously rethink our position,” he joked about the much-anticipated July 17 match-up.

As part of strengthening their alliance, Mullen said, Japan and the United States also must reach out to expand multilateral relations in the region. “No single nation can address all of today’s challenges alone,” he said. “There is greater strength to be found in the diversity of talent presented through plural initiatives and cooperation.”

Japan’s recent efforts to improve bilateral relations with South Korea and Australia are a good example, Mullen said, in addressing common challenges ranging from piracy in the Straits of Malacca to weapons proliferation and disaster response.

Mullen said he would like to see those bilateral relationships extend to more conventional and defensive capabilities with South Korea and others. “The United States has enduring interests in the Pacific, and we have enduring security commitments we plan to broaden and deepen,” he said. “But so, too, would we like to see others broaden and deepen their cooperation with their neighbors.

“Relationships matter,” he continued. “Where they are strong, there is trust and transparency and a better chance for stability. Where they are weak or nonexistent, there is, at best, suspicion and, at worst, the very real risk of miscalculation.”

Mullen began the Asia trip at the invitation of his Chinese counterpart, Gen. Chen Bingde, who visited the Pentagon in May. The admiral said the meetings he took part in over several days in China were “productive and generally positive with respect to moving us closer to some sort of relationship.” He noted that the U.S. and Chinese militaries have not had “a sustained, reliable relationship.”

The chairman said he made clear in Beijing that “there’s just too much at stake for us not to have an understanding of one another.” But, he acknowledged, U.S. military leaders and those with the People’s Liberation Army have a long way to go.

“I am under no illusion that we have cemented anything like a partnership with the PLA,” he said. “Maybe we never will. Differences between us are still stark. But the work of establishing a relationship has to start somewhere. The exchanges and exercises we agreed to are good first steps, as are discussions we will soon have about the Military Maritime Consultative Agreement.”

U.S. allies should not be concerned about the country’s efforts at a military relationship with China, Mullen said.

“Relationships are not zero-sum affairs, replete with winners and losers,” he explained. “One relationship does not come at the expense of another. Nor does a relationship in the nascent stages of development unseat or make unsteady those that have been tempered over time and trial. Quite the contrary. A constructive [U.S.-China military] relationship is eventually good for everyone with whom we are close.”