Leon Panetta actually said...

The ability of these other countries to develop trade with us, to develop their economies creates greater stability within those countries.

We have to have a presence there in order to protect our own interests and to work with other countries in that area.

We are, at the present time, on track to withdrawing our forces by the end of 2011.

I also hope that we will continue to do what we can to strengthen our relationship with China as it becomes more of an economic powerhouse.