; and (F) promoting respect for the international liberal order based on commonly respected norms and values. (2) The close security relationships between the United States and its five treaty allies in the Asia-Pacific region—Australia, Japan, the Philippines, South Korea and Thailand—as well as the security relationships between the United States and its non-alliance security partners in the region remain vital to the United States national interest and a cornerstone of regional stability. (3) The United States opposes North Korea’s illegal and reckless pursuit of nuclear weapons. (4) Countering North Korea’s destabilizing activities in the region by diplomatic, economic, and defensive means is a top national security issue for the United States as the threat posed by North Korea endangers United States allies, threatens to destabilize the Asia-Pacific region, and if unchecked, poses a grave nuclear proliferation challenge to the world. 3. Establishment of Asia-Pacific Defense Commission (a) Statement of policy (1) In general It is the policy of the United States to continue to maintain a strong military posture in the Asia-Pacific region in order to reassure United States allies, deter aggression, and respond swiftly to crises. (2) Enhanced military training and exercises The Secretary of Defense, in consultation with the Secretary of State, shall seek opportunities to enhance military training and exercises with United States allies in the Asia-Pacific region to deepen cooperation between the militaries of the United States and such allies, to expand operational capabilities, and to encourage respect for human rights and the rule of law. (b) Joint defense commission The President may establish a regional joint defense commission to be known as the Asia-Pacific Defense Commission. The purpose of the commission shall be to strengthen cooperation between the United States and its allies in the Asia-Pacific region to combat joint threats. The commission may undertake the following activities: (1) Strengthening