Mattis arrives in Singapore as N Korea tensions swirl

TIL Desk/World/Singapore/ Pentagon chief Jim Mattis arrived in Singapore today ahead of a key defence summit where longstanding US allies will look for clear messages about America’s regional security goals under President Donald Trump.

Mattis’s visit, his second to the region, is the latest in a string of appearances by top US officials who have scrambled to reassure partners about US commitments. While campaigning, Trump sparked broad anxiety by calling into question long-standing security assumptions and mutual defence treaties with Japan and South Korea.

But the US leader’s views have shifted since he took office, and Mattis told reporters he would be underscoring American support for the region.

“I will emphasise the United States stands with our Asia-Pacific allies and partners,” Mattis told reporters traveling with him, “reinforcing the international order necessary to secure a peaceful, prosperous and free Asia with respect for all nations upholding international law.” Mattis will deliver his message at a policy speech at the Shangri-La Dialogue on Saturday.