Ensure that local and regional instabilities do not threaten the security and well-being of the United States or its allies. As established in the President's National Security Strategy, U.S. national security, based on diplomatic leadership, a strong military, and effective intelligence, is a prerequisite to achieving all other U.S. international goals. However, defense of U.S. interests may compel action to prevent, manage, and resolve ethnic conflicts, territorial disputes, civil wars, and destabilizing humanitarian disasters anywhere on the globe. A collective response can be less costly and more effective, but the United States must be prepared to act unilaterally if necessary. The Department of State coordinates interagency policy for national security issues and carries out diplomatic and foreign affairs activities that put policy into practice.
State manages alliance relationships and coordinates interagency policy on peacekeeping operations.
Maintain effective working relationships with leading regional states through vigorous diplomacy, backed by strong U.S. and allied military capability to react to regional contingencies. State provides policy coordination and the diplomatic framework for overall bilateral contacts, including in specialized areas like base access and agreements on use of forces in regional contingencies. State manages alliances, develops policies on trade control and arms sales, and allocates security assistance. State plays a central role in diplomacy and crisis management, serving as a nerve center for the U.S. Government, and leading diplomatic and humanitarian activities, and protection of American citizens. Build peacekeeping alliances.