Posted on 10/30/2013 1:02:31 AM PDT by TexGrill
WASHINGTON – U.S. lawmakers voiced bipartisan support Tuesday for the Obama administration’s strategic pivot to Asia but stressed the need for partner nations to strengthen their military capabilities and contribute more to their own defense.
Members of the House Armed Services Committee plan to step up scrutiny of U.S. military policy in the fast-growing region, where despite budget pressure, Washington wants to increase its presence as it draws down forces in Afghanistan.
Lawmakers said they plan a wide-ranging examination of U.S. force deployments and how to optimize security relationships. They plan a series of five hearings between now and early 2014, mostly focused on the growing military power of China. Topics will include its capabilities in space, the modernization of its navy and air force, and maritime disputes.
Congress does not set U.S. policy but it can influence it and controls the purse strings. The lawmakers said part of the committee’s intent is to explain to the rest of Congress and the American public about the strategic importance of the U.S. remaining engaged in the Asia-Pacific, where it has been the dominant force since World War II. Some in Asia, however, are voicing doubts about Washington’s staying power in the region as it grapples with political divisions at home and crises in the Mideast.
(Excerpt) Read more at japantimes.co.jp ...
Don't worry, Nobel Prize winning Obama is a pushover, in both directions...
Yes, but Obummer is relaiable about being unreliable on his ‘red lines.’ That’s how he stays consistent when it come to his foreign policy.
Red lines? How about “Pinko lines”?
He is consistent in that he cannot be trusted by our allies but sure to slip up and fall into the traps of our enemies...
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