US: War games in Asia-Pacific to affirm long-term stay

The United States says it intends to maintain a long-term presence in the Asia-Pacific region as holds military maneuvers with Asian countries.

Commander of the US Army Pacific Lt. Gen. Benjamin Nixon said on Thursday that the military exercise is one aspect of that presence.

The ‘Cobra Gold exercise’ is to run until February 11 and will see soldiers, sailors, marines and airmen from the US, Thailand, Japan, Indonesia, Singapore, and South Korea taking part in operations across Thailand.

Nixon also praised South Korea’s first participation in the three-week exercise, being held for the 29th time.

“South Korea is a leader in the Asia-Pacific region, and this just underscores their importance in the peace and stability within the region,” he was quoted as saying by the Associated Press.

Some 11,500 military personnel are participating in the war games.

Thailand is viewed as a major ally of the United States in the Pacific region, and has been receiving US military assistance.