Deputy Defense Secretary Bob Work will travel to the Asia-Pacific region next week to strengthen multilateral security cooperation, build more robust partnerships and discuss ongoing efforts and regional security matters, Work’s spokeswoman said today in a statement.

The Aug. 17 to 23 trip, Work’s first official visit to the region, will include stops in Hawaii, Guam, South Korea and Japan, Navy Lt. Cmdr. Courtney Hillson said.

At each location, Hillson said, the deputy secretary will visit military installations, speak with service members and civilian employees, and meet with allies and partners.

As Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel has directed, she added, Work is overseeing the department’s implementation of enhancements to the U.S. military presence in the Asia-Pacific region, emphasizing the U.S. posture in Guam, Japan and South Korea.

Work's visit supports Hagel's commitment to the Asia-Pacific rebalance, Hillson said, and to strengthening U.S. relationships with allies and partners in the region.