By STAFF Reporter
November 19, 2011
ASEAN NEWS - United states President Barack Obama had a meeting on the sidelines of the Association of South-East Asian Nations (Asean) summit in Bali (Indonesia) on Friday with Chinese Prime Minister Wen Jiabao.
In the brief talks Obama focused on increasing the US influence in the region when China is seen wielding growing power.
This was the last engagment of Obama before wrapping up his nine-day tour to Asia. A meeting with South Asian leaders including China, India and Russia was followed.
This is the first time a US president attended East Asia Summit
Asean is Southeasian Asian countries' regional bloc along with eight dialogue partners. Russia and United States joined from this year.
Formal statements are yet to arrive but it is learned from other media sources the talks may have been dominated by trade and maritime security - in particular the South China Sea contentious issue.
The South China Sea got oil and gas reserves potential and also its an important shipping route. The whole of the sea is claimed by China and parts of it are also claimed by other South East Asian nations.
Philippines asked Washington to step in and help in solving the row, but Surin Pitsuwan - Asean secretary general - said the issue can be resolved peacefully by themselves.
Obama pledged on Thursday of increasing the United States engagement with the region along with a strong military presence that includes US Marines deployment to Australia.
ASEAN 2011 News Video
US President cements ties with Australia:
US President boosts military presence in Australia:
ASEAN Protests in Bali (Indonesia):
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