In this time of crisis and unemployment, the US public may question freer trade. But more and more US businesses realize that still-growing Asian markets are vital for their future profits and overall economic recovery.
Most economic frameworks are among Asians only, but a US initiative could trump them and ensure that the region remains open and engaged with the US. It could also help lessen the tendency of some governments to gravitate ever closer towards the booming Chinese economy.
Of course, when Obama arrives in Beijing, he must continue to strengthen cooperation with China. On the economic crisis, climate change and many other global issues, China and the US are potentially the decisive actors. But the US must also engage in a more multilateral way to include Southeast Asia’s smaller countries. China has been charming them over the past decade, and the US must offer an attractive alternative.
To cynics, APEC is a talking shop, while ASEAN is an arena for an ongoing contest between China and Japan, with India on the side. But, despite the rivalries and all the chatter, it is clear that Asians are coming closer together. And, while Asian regionalism is messy and rife with tensions and flash points, the US has been the stabilizing power in the region.
Obama has the opportunity to ensure that the region continues to see the US as the essential actor — now more open and helpful than before. If he achieves this, Obama’s long trip will be valuable for Americans, and Asians will realize that it was worth waiting for him.
Simon Tay is chairman of the Singapore Institute of International Affairs and a fellow at the Asia Society.
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