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[QUOTE="Munyaradzi Mafaro, post: 67334, member: 636"]
Washington pledged its backing for Southeast Asian nations confronting regional tensions, especially disputes in the South China Sea, Malaysia's defense chief said on Sunday. Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin told reporters that American officials outlined their philosophy of peace through strength during an informal gathering with ASEAN defense leaders following the 12th Asean Defence Ministers' Meeting Plus in Kuala Lumpur.

The Malaysian minister explained that U.S. representatives clearly articulated their belief that security cannot exist without military capability. He noted that American support aims to strengthen Asean members' ability to handle difficulties in contested maritime areas. However, Khaled emphasized that any collaboration with Washington must operate within Asean's established leadership structure and respect the bloc's founding values.

The informal tea session occurred after the main summit concluded with participation from defense ministers representing Asean and eight partner nations, which were the United States, China, Japan, India, Australia, New Zealand, South Korea and Russia. Khaled acknowledged maritime challenges exist but stressed that assistance must align with the regional principles his country supports.
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