The Defence Secretary Leon Panetta has emphasised the importance of a strong US naval presence in Asia. His statement comes on the eve of a trip to the region.

Speaking at the US naval academy, he said the future of the US depended on ensuring security throughout the Western Pacific and the Indian Ocean. 

America is a maritime nation and we are returning to our maritime roots, he said. Mr Panetta is due to travel to Vietnam, India and Singapore for a security summit.

Speaking to naval graduates in Annapolis, he said the US should strengthen existing ties with Japan, South Korea, Australia and the Philippines, and form robust partnerships with South East Asian nations.

The Pentagon chief also spoke about the need to strengthen defence ties with China, even as its military is growing and modernising.