Nothing reassures the region so much as our presence, forging a special bond with regional leaders, even as we provide a stabilizing force for markets and trade routes. No diplomatic note, no political mission, no economic commission conveys the same unequivocal message of commitment as a visible U.S. presence, active with friends and vigilant for our collective interests. It doesn't necessarily entail bases. We do not seek large permanent bases in Southeast Asia. The second pillar of our strategy is the maintenance of strong bilateral relationships and regional alliances.
Alliances lend a special synergy to our regional efforts.
More about that later. The final pillar is a focus on joint and coalition training, exercising and preparation for rapid, decisive reaction in the event of natural disaster or a political-military crisis. The available means for this Cooperative Engagement strategy are not limited to forces. They also include assets, funds and programs. We don't just think in terms of planes, ships and tanks.