By Diyar Guldogan
WASHINGTON (AA) – US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth arrived Monday at United States Indo-Pacific Command (INDOPACOM) in Hawaii for talks.
“Great to meet with @INDOPACOM Commander ADM Samuel Paparo. Our unwavering commitment to deterrence, readiness, and strength alongside our allies and partners is the cornerstone of our mission.
"A free and open Indo-Pacific is only possible through this American resolve," Hegseth said on X.
As part of his trip, Hegseth will travel to the US island territory of Guam, where he is expected to tour US military facilities and receive capabilities briefs.
Then, in the Philippines, he will work to advance security objectives with Philippine leaders and meet with US and Philippine forces.
On the last leg of his visit in Japan, Hegseth will take part in a ceremony commemorating the 80th anniversary of the World War II Battle of Iwo Jima and will later meet with Japanese leaders and US military forces.
"Secretary Hegseth's trip comes as the United States builds on unprecedented cooperation with like-minded countries to strengthen regional security," said Chief Pentagon spokesman Sean Parnell.