Hagel calls Asian ministers gathering 'important milestone' in promotion of Pacific stability

[Omaha Steve]

Source: Omaha World Herald

By Joseph Morton

HONOLULU — Thursday was a typical Hawaiian day on the grounds of the upscale, oceanfront Kahala Hotel and Resort.

Snip: At a press conference after his final meeting with the ministers, Hagel touted the very serious accomplishments and progress made during the historic meeting.

“This gathering was an important milestone in America's growing engagement with the ASEAN nations and another signal of the important role ASEAN has to play in promoting regional stability and prosperity,” Hagel said.

China and the United States have both been moving to increase their influence in the Asia-Pacific region, and China is involved in various territorial disputes with its neighbors, including the Philippines in the South China Sea.

FULL story at link.



Read more: http://www.omaha.com/article/20140404/NEWS/140409452/1685#hagel-calls-asian-ministers-gathering-important-milestone-in-promotion-of-pacific-stability

[GeorgeGist]

1. Add this for even gooder awesome ...

A US defense official said, "ASEAN is an important affirmative investment for the US." With the aim of deploying 60 percent of the US fleet in the Asia-Pacific region by 2020, the White House also has to ensure that all regional stakeholders coordinate with its moves."

http://www.globaltimes.cn/NEWS/tabid/99/ID/852608/US-ASEAN-overtures-wont-alter-situation.aspx