This week, Barack Obama embarks on his first trip to Asia as president, acknowledging the region's economic and diplomatic significance to the United States amidst a backdrop of domestic issues. The visit includes attending an Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit in Singapore, but the most crucial part will be in China. Here, Obama will need to navigate a complex relationship with a country that holds the largest amount of U.S. foreign debt and is the second-largest trading partner. In an interview before the trip, Obama emphasized the importance of viewing China as both a partner and a competitor, advocating for friendly competition within established international rules to promote responsible behavior worldwide. Ben Rhodes, a deputy national security adviser, stated that America recognizes the importance of Asia in the 21st century and will be actively engaged in addressing various critical issues for prosperity and security during President Obama's visits to Japan, South Korea, and China. These issues include North Korea, Iran, global economy, trade, climate change, energy, human rights, Afghanistan, and Pakistan. Obama will also discuss U.S. engagement with Asia during his stop in Tokyo. In China, he will visit Shanghai and Beijing, hold bilateral meetings with President Hu Jintao and Premier Wen Jiabao. The purpose of the trip is to emphasize the strong involvement of the United States in Asia, shifting focus from Islamic militancy. However, Obama's attention is likely to be diverted by domestic issues such as healthcare reform, unemployment, and the decision on troop levels in Afghanistan. These concerns may hinder progress on climate change and trade agreements, as Obama needs support from groups that are skeptical of these initiatives. Therefore, Obama is not expected to aggressively pursue deals like a free trade agreement with South Korea. The administration has hinted that they will revisit trade agreements in the future, according to Ernie Bower, director of the Southeast Asia program at the Center for Strategic and International Studies in Washington. He questioned whether Asian leaders hold that belief, expressing uncertainty. Despite Obama's widespread popularity in the countries he is visiting, achieving tangible outcomes may not be the main focus. Observers and government officials emphasize that Obama's presidency is still new, and view this trip as primarily setting the stage for future collaboration. It is noted that President Obama is well-liked in all the countries he is traveling to. Jeffrey Bader, senior director for East Asian affairs at the National Security Council, mentioned that he has not viewed the most recent polls, but the figures he has seen are remarkable. He emphasized that having someone with a high level of respect and admiration delivers a more impactful message compared to someone with a low approval rating.