Asia-Pacific to play key role in defining world’s future: Obama
17 Nov 2011
US president Barack Obama says the Asia-Pacific region would play a key role in defining the world's future.
"The United States is a Pacific power, and we are here to stay," he stated in a speech to the Australian parliament, which is seen to be sending a clear message to Beijing.
The president's comments came after Australia agreed to host a full US marine taskforce in the coming years.
China has questioned the move which is seen by many analysts as a counter to the growing influence of Beijing.
Obama who was in Canberra, said the US was now turning to the region.
"Let there be no doubt: in the Asia-Pacific in the 21st Century, the United States of America is all in," he said.