NSS 1998

Executive Summary

• National Security Strategy for a New Century, October 1998, outlines US national security objectives and strategy for the 21st century.
• The document identifies three core objectives: enhancing security, bolstering economic prosperity, and promoting democracy abroad.

Introduction

• The US remains a powerful force for peace, prosperity and values of democracy and freedom.
• Global integration presents both opportunities and complex challenges.
• Key challenges include extreme nationalism, terrorism, crime, environmental damage, and fluctuating trade and investment.

Advancing U.S. National Interests

• The US seeks a stable, peaceful international security environment.
• Protecting US citizens and critical infrastructures is an essential element.
• Spreading democratic values and respect for human rights is crucial to US interests.
• The US endeavors for continued economic prosperity and global growth.
• Environmental health is important as it affects public health, economic growth, and international stability.
• The three national interests categories include vital interests, important national interests, and other interests

Shaping the International Environment

• Key instruments of national power are diplomacy, military force and other foreign policy tools.
• The international community and partnerships are vital in addressing the challenges.

International Assistance

• US foreign assistance has been instrumental in supporting emerging democracies, helping expand free markets, and addressing health threats and humanitarian crises.

Arms Control

• The US values verifiable arms control agreements to prevent the spread of WMD, halt use of conventional weapons, and enhance regional stability.
• Nonproliferation initiatives focus on preventing the spread of WMD, materials, and delivery systems.
• The US seeks strengthened, multilateral efforts in arms control with other nations.

Multilateral Initiatives

• International cooperation is vital for building future security.
• Many threats are international.
• The US continues to work with international organizations like the UN and NATO.

Addressing Transnational Threats

• Terrorism, drug trafficking, and international organized crime are increasing threats
• Global cooperation is required to counter these transnational threats effectively.

Protecting Critical Infrastructures

• Safeguarding critical infrastructure (physical and information systems) from attacks is paramount.
• A strong national infrastructure protection center is needed to coordinate federal, state, and local responses to terrorism and WMD incidents.

Military Activities

• US military activities safeguard interests and deter aggression.
• The document discusses deterrence, conflict prevention, and response to crises.
• The role of the military in overseas presence and power projection is highlighted.

Major Theater Warfare

• The capability to fight and win major theater wars is crucial for deterrence.
• The possibility of unconventional attacks by adversaries such as WMDs demands preparations.
• Flexibility and capabilities must be maintained.

Overseas Presence and Power Projection

• U.S. maintains a global presence to deter aggression and respond to crises.
• U.S. partnerships with allies and alliances play a key role in maintaining stability.
• National security involves projecting power effectively globally

Preparing Now for an Uncertain Future

• The need to adapt to future challenges requires continued military readiness and global engagement.
• Revolutions in military affairs necessitate technological advances.

Enhancing American Competitiveness

• The US must maintain a competitive edge in trade, with ongoing negotiations for trade agreements with partner countries.
• Export promotion and favorable commercial environments are crucial to economic prosperity.

Promoting an Open Trading System

• The Uruguay Round of trade negotiations has brought substantial benefits to the US economy and has strengthened the global trading system.
• The Information Technology Agreement will further liberalize world trade in telecommunications services.
• The US seeks to resolve trade disputes with trading partners.

Enhanced Export Control

• Maintaining strong export controls is vital for national security.
• Managing dual-use technology exports ensures the protection of national security interests.

Providing for Energy Security

• The United States has crucial energy interests, including foreign oil sources and domestic conservation efforts.
• The US will continue to focus on alternative sources and greater energy efficiency.

Promoting Sustainable Development Abroad

• Sustainable economic growth and environmental protection are intertwined with regional security.
• Global cooperation is necessary to address climate change.

Promoting Democracy

• The US will promote democracy and human rights internationally.
• Humanitarian issues, such as addressing migration and conflict resolution, are also vital.

The Western Hemisphere

• U.S. security interests in the Western hemisphere focus on issues like drug trafficking, organized crime, immigration, terrorism.
• Cooperation and multilateral initiatives are vital in achieving stability.

The Middle East, Southwest and South Asia

• Regional stability is crucial for maintaining U.S. security interests.
• The dangers posed by WMD and terrorism remain vital concerns.

East Asia and the Pacific

• US security and economic interests in the Asia Pacific region are extensive.
• Promoting regional stability and addressing transnational issues like North Korea's nuclear program is vital.

Europe and Eurasia

• European stability is a vital concern.
• NATO remains the anchor of American engagement in Europe.

African Security Issues

• The US aims to promote peace, democratic instability, and economic growth through bilateral engagements and initiatives.

Promoting Prosperity

• Global economic prosperity and security of the United States are vitally interconnected.
• The US is working towards an increase in economic integration and cooperation with nations globally.

Conclusion

• The document lays out a comprehensive strategy for attaining US national security interests.
• International cooperation and engagement are necessary for achieving and preserving peace and prosperity.