Thursday, February 28, 2013

US 'can't dictate' to the world: Pentagon's new chief

US 'can't dictate' to the world: Pentagon's new chief

America cannot "dictate to the world" and must work with allies and build relationships with other nations, US Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel said shortly after being sworn in Wednesday as the new Pentagon chief. On his first day at the job, Hagel reinforced his reputation as a reluctant warrior as he told an auditorium of civilian officials and military officers that America was a powerful country but could not accomplish its goals without forging strong alliances. "I've always believed that America's role in the world ... has been one that should engage the world. We can't dictate to the world. But we must engage in the world," Hagel said. "No nation, as great as America is, can do this on their own. We need to continue to build on the strong relationships that we have built."