ensure that higher strategic objectives, such as our ability to protect vital U.S. interests and to maintain our leadership position in international affairs, are not sacrificed in the process. In particular, as we have stated in previous Reports, the Department of Defense and the Department of State take strong exception to proposals that U.S. forward presence be determined by allied cost sharing, or that we adopt a "one-size-fits-all" policy in seeking responsibility sharing contributions. As demonstrated herein, U.S. forward presence posture, as well as our responsibility sharing policy, reflect the very real regional differences we face in the pursuit of U.S. strategic goals around the world.

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