New US Secretary of Defense visits Asia

US Defense Secretary James Mattis is expected to emphasize America's commitment to allies South Korea and Japan during his first trip to Asia.

James Mattis left the US on February 1 for Seoul and then continued to Tokyo on February 3. This is Mr. Mattis's first trip since becoming the Pentagon chief and also the first foreign trip by a Secretary in Trump's cabinet, according to Reuters.

Officials say the fact that Mr. Mattis's first trip is to Asia, rather than to visit American troops in Iraq or Afghanistan, is intended to reaffirm the relationship with the two allies and the importance of the Asian region in general.

“This is a reassuring message,” said an unnamed Trump administration official.

“This is a message to all those who have been concerned that Mr. Trump is skeptical of our alliances and intends to retreat from our traditional leadership role in the region.”

Mr. Trump has spoken by phone with the leaders of Japan and South Korea in recent days and will meet Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe in Washington on February 10.

US Secretary of Defense James Mattis. Photo: Reuters

According to VNE