Barack Obama is embarking on his first trip to Asia as president this week, acknowledging the region's economic and diplomatic significance to the United States amidst domestic challenges. His itinerary includes attending an Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit in Singapore and engaging with China, the largest holder of U.S. foreign debt and second-largest trading partner. Obama views China as both a crucial partner and competitor, emphasizing the importance of maintaining friendly competition within established international rules to promote responsible global behavior. He will be traveling to Japan and South Korea as well. Ben Rhodes, a deputy national security adviser, stated that the main focus of the trip is to show that America is a Pacific nation and recognizes the importance of Asia in the 21st century. The United States plans to be actively involved in addressing various crucial issues such as North Korea, Iran, the global economy, trade, climate change, energy, human rights, Afghanistan, and Pakistan. During his visit to Tokyo, Obama will discuss his perspective on U.S. engagement with Asia. In China, from November 15-18, Obama will visit Shanghai and Beijing, hold meetings with President Hu Jintao and Premier Wen Jiabao for the third time. The purpose of the trip is to demonstrate the United States' strong involvement in Asia, shifting focus from Islamic militancy to other issues. However, Obama's attention is divided by domestic concerns such as healthcare reform, unemployment, and the decision on troop deployment in Afghanistan. These issues may hinder progress on climate change and trade agreements, as Obama faces opposition from groups whose support is crucial for other policy goals. Many businesses are concerned about the costs of climate change regulations, while labor unions fear job losses from free trade agreements. Consequently, Obama is unlikely to aggressively pursue deals like a free trade agreement with South Korea. Despite this, the administration has indicated a willingness to revisit trade agreements in the future. "He expressed uncertainty about whether Asian leaders hold that belief. With Obama's popularity soaring in the countries he is currently visiting, tangible outcomes may not be the main focus. Observers and government officials acknowledge that Obama has only been in office for a few months, and view this trip as primarily setting the stage for future collaboration. It is noted that President Obama is highly esteemed in all the nations he is traveling to." Jeffrey Bader, senior director for East Asian affairs at the National Security Council, stated that he has not yet viewed the most recent polls, but finds the numbers he has seen to be impressive. He believes that when a person is highly respected, admired, and loved, their message is more likely to have an impact compared to someone with a low approval rating.