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Obama hails China's expanded role

(Agencies)
Updated: 2009-11-14 09:51

Tokyo: U.S. President Barack Obama said Saturday that he welcomes a robust China on the world scene. He played down some Westerners' fears of an ascending China, especially in economic affairs.

"We welcome China's efforts to play a greater role on the world stage, a role in which their growing economy is joined by growing responsibility," said visiting U.S. President Barack Obama in his speech on U.S.policy toward Asia in Tokyo.

"The United States does not seek to contain China," he said. "On the contrary, the rise of a strong, prosperous China can be a source of strength for the community of nations."

"We believe that continued integration of economies in Asia will benefit all nations," Obama said.

U.S. President Barack Obama delivers a speech on U.S. engagement in Asia at Suntory Hall in Tokyo November 14, 2009.[Agencies]