Gates, speaking today at an Asian security forum in Singapore, warned of a host of security concerns, especially in Afghanistan.
The Pentagon chief urged Asian nations to do more to ensure that Afghanistan does not slip back into chaos. He said the risks there, which also include rising terrorism, extend to neighboring nations in Central Asia as well:
Gates said he hoped Asian would "step forward with assistance to Afghanistan in the areas of governance, reconstruction and counter narcotics."
The U.S. Secretary of Defense said such help was necessary because, "It is clear that Afghanistan and its newly independent neighbors in Central Asia face steep obstacles as they strive to make the transition into prosperous, secure and fully sovereign nations."
Gates said the rest of Asia has a large stake in making sure the Central Asian nations and Afghanistan achieve long-lasting stability.
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