Washington Report, 2010-3

Abstract

Soon after entering office, President Obama pledged to increase U.S. engagement in Asia through high-level diplomacy and substantive programs. He backed up his words with action on November 15, 2009 when he met with leaders of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN)--the first such meeting ever between a U.S. President and all ten ASEAN leaders. Subsequently, however, the U.S. President on three occasions postponed a visit to Indonesia. In addition, long-time ally Thailand became roiled in political upheaval and Burma was rumored to have purchased arms from North Korea. Prof. Karl D. Jackson of Johns Hopkins University discusses how political developments in Southeast Asia and other challenges may affect U.S. efforts to build closer relations.