Panetta Aims To Bolster Defense Relations In South America

Defense Secretary Leon Panetta is on his way to South America to expand U.S. military cooperation there, reports the Dept. of Defense.

During the week-long trip, Panetta is scheduled to meet with top defense officials in Colombia, Brazil and Chile.

The Pentagon said the talks will focus on supporting civil authorities in smaller countries in the general region, such as Belize, El Salvador and Guatemala.

Drug-trafficking and arms deals are also expected to be on the agenda,...