AFRICOM leaders address concerns

WARRENTON, Va., March 31 (UPI) -- Top officials from the U.S. African Command are attempting to assuage concerns that the United States is planning to militarize its foreign policy in Africa.

AFRICOM Commander Army Gen. William Ward recently addressed defense officials from African nations at the U.S.-African Defense Policy Dialogue meeting. Ward said the new U.S. command, established in October 2007, is an effort by the United States to address security concerns that have developed in Africa and to work with African nations to assist in dealing with potential threats, AFRICOM reported.

Ward also said AFRICOM will maintain a light footprint in Africa, attempting to address concerns from critics who have said the United States is planning on establishing bases on the continent.

Officials expect AFRICOM to be fully operational by October 2008 with as many as 1,300 civilian and military personnel assigned to the command. U.S. Ambassador Mary Yates, the second-highest ranking person in the command, added that U.S. foreign policy is not directed by the military but by civilians.

"(The key is) sustained security engagement with our partners," Yates said in a statement. "If you want us to partner with you, we'll be there with you. We want to stay in the military lane, because what we've heard from you is better security and stability in your nations is what is going to bring economic prosperity."