Obama at West Point says U.S. needs allies with it in Afghanistan

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In a speech at before graduating cadets at West Point, President Obama on Saturday outlined a national security strategy that relies not only on military might but international alliances and a fidelity to the rule of law in confronting what he called ‘the challenges of our generation.’

The president also tied his security policy more directly to his domestic agenda, saying education, clean energy and the pursuit of science and research are necessary to the competitive innovation that is a foundation of American power.

‘We must pursue a strategy of national renewal and global leadership — to build the sources of American strength and influence, and to shape a world that is more peaceful and prosperous,’ Obama told those gathered at Michie Stadium.

The Class of 2010’s ceremony marked the ninth consecutive commencement at the U.S. Military Academy during wartime, Obama noted.

While the war in Iraq is coming to an end, he said, the Afghanistan effort remains difficult. Six months ago, the president announced at West Point his new strategy for Afghanistan and Pakistan, which included the deployment of an additional 30,000 U.S. troops.

‘There will be difficult days ahead,’ the president said. ‘But we will adapt, we will persist, and I have no doubt that together with our Afghan and international partners, we will succeed in Afghanistan.’

Obama outlined a four-point national security strategy that comes as the president is preparing a formal National Security Strategy document for release next week.

In his speech, he stressed the need for the military to be backed in its mission by diplomats, development experts, intelligence agencies, law enforcement personnel and first-responders, saying the nation must ‘build and integrate the capabilities that can advance our interests.’

Perhaps most defining as Obama’s national security strategy becomes more detailed is the president’s renewed belief that the United States must work within the international system to accomplish its goals.

‘The burdens of this century cannot fall on American shoulders alone,’ Obama said.

‘We will be steadfast in strengthening those old alliances that have served us so well, including those who will serve by your side in Afghanistan and around the globe. As influence extends to more countries and capitals, we must also build new partnerships, and shape stronger international standards and institutions.’

The president also reaffirmed the U.S. commitment to the rule of law as a cornerstone of his strategy.

A ‘fundamental part of our strategy is America’s support for those universal rights that formed the creed of our founding,’ Obama said. ‘We will promote these values above all by living them — through our fidelity to the rule of law and our Constitution, even when it’s hard.’

As the cadets prepared to graduate as officers, Obama said he was mindful that many of them would be deployed to the war zone.

‘You have answered the call,’ Obama said. ‘But now the rest of us must do our part.’

-- Lisa Mascaro