U.S. wants closer ties with Russia & China

The newspaper reports that Gates recommends partnering with China and Russia in order to blunt their rise as potential enemies.

The strategy is a culmination of Gates' work since he took over at the Pentagon in 2006. It spells out his view that America must harness both military assets and ‘soft power’ to defeat a complex, transnational foe.

The news has emerged as President Bush said the U.S is set to extend its mandate in Iraq.

Speaking on Thursday, he said: “We're also making progress in our discussion with Prime Minister Maliki's government on a strategic framework agreement. This agreement will serve as the foundation for America's presence in Iraq once the United Nations resolution authorising the multinational forces there expires on December 31.”