|
|
|
|
|
|
| |
| |
By Category |
 |
|
|
| |
|
| |
| |
India On Media |
|
|
|
| |
|
| |
|
|
| Politics
News |
|
| Obama's trip sends message to Asian |
| Obama's trip sends message to Asian leaders
|
| UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
, 18-November-2011
7:43:27 AM |
| President Obama discussed maritime security, nuclear non-proliferation and disaster aid at an Asian summit on Friday, but just his presence on this resort island telegraphed his main message: that the United States is turning its focus to the booming Asia-Pacific region after a decade of preoccupation with wars in Iraq and Afghanistan.
Calling the region critical to economic growth and national security, Mr. Obama said, "I want everyone to know from the outset, my administration is committed to strengthening our ties with each country individually but also with the region's institutions."
The president spoke at the opening of the annual meeting of the 10-nation Association of Southeast Asian Nations. Before that session he met separately with the leaders of India, Indonesia, Malaysia and the Philippines. On Saturday, Mr. Obama will become the first American president to participate at the larger East Asia Summit before he returns to Washington after eight days of Pacific Rim diplomacy.
The summit on Friday was eclipsed by news of a diplomatic opening between the United States and Myanmar now that its military dictators have loosened their chokehold on freedoms there. Mr. Obama announced on the summit's sidelines that he is sending Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton to Myanmar, also known as Burma, to test its rulers' sincerity about democratic reforms and human rights.
With the break in tension between the United States and Myanmar, Mr. Obama was able to concentrate on convincing the other Asian nations that his administration is committed to engaging more with the region on economic and national security issues. The countries along the South China Sea have been especially eager for the United States to increase its presence in the region as a check on China's ambitions.
Mr. Obama also delivered that message last weekend at the separate Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation free trade forum in Hawaii, which he hosted.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
ADVERTISEMENTS
Free offer!!! Become an administrator for your zip home page, "Post" local news (local to your postcode)& pictures, "Post" advertisement banners from local companies. Make Extra money.
|
 |
 |
|
|
| |
|
