"The sustained presence and persistent engagement of our forces are the
most effective way to develop the lasting relationships and cooperation
necessary to secure our vital national interests," Mullen wrote.
Mullen said Iran must remain a priority in 2009. He called on the Joint
Staff to update assessments and operational plans for Iran, accused of
developing nuclear weapons, as well as other countries in the region.
"I believe the nexus of terrorism and the proliferation of weapons of
mass destruction remains the greatest threat to the United States and our
vital national interests," the memorandum said. "It is imperative that we
remain capable of executing our war plans and engaged around the world —
building partner capacity, improving international and interagency
cooperation and fostering both security and stability."
The chairman of the Joint Chiefs also warned of a resurgence of Al Qaida
in Pakistan. Mullen said Al Qaida safe havens in Pakistan mark the greatest
potential source of an attack on the United States.
"Al Qaida sanctuaries in the under-governed regions of Pakistan further
contribute to regional instability," Mullen said.
Mullen called on the Joint Staff to develop a military strategy to
support U.S. policy in the Middle East. A key concern, Mullen wrote, was the
erosion of U.S. military assets and morale amid the wars in Afghanistan and
Iraq.
"We have been at war for more than seven years, and I remain concerned
that the high pace of operations will further degrade our warfighting
systems, equipment, platforms and people if we fail to deliver on
initiatives such as grow the force and reset funding," the memorandum said.
