Clinton plays down tension risks with China

• Source: Global Times
• [07:42 January 13 2010]
• Comments

Clinton also reiterated that visits to Asia are a "signal that the US intends to be a leader and exercise influence in this region for this century as well as the last century," AFP reported.

"There was a general sense on the part of our allies and partners in the region that we were withdrawing," AFP quoted her as saying, suggesting the previous administration of president George W. Bush had neglected the region.

"But people want to see that the United States is fully engaged in Asia so that, as China rises, there is a presence of the United States as a force for peace and stability, as a guarantor of security," she added.

Meanwhile, Clinton held talks with her Japanese counterpart Katsuya Okada Tuesday over the disputed US air base in Japan.

Clinton also said Washington intends to "exercise influence" in Asia for another century and serve as a stabilizing force in the region.

This is her fourth Asia tour since becoming the chief US diplomat a year ago. She will visit Papua New Guinea, Australia and New Zealand.

Agencies contributed to this story