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The world’s strategic and economic center of gravity will be the Asia-Pacific.
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It’s home to nearly half the world’s population,
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it boasts several of the largest and fastest growing economies
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and some of the world’s busiest ports and shipping lanes,
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and it also presents consequential challenges.
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And one of the most important tasks over the next decades
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will be to lock in a substantially increased investment
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— diplomatic, economic, strategic and otherwise — in this region.
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And the U.S. continues to contribute to Asia’s growth
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as a major trade and investment partner,
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a source of innovation that benefits Asia’s companies,
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a host to 350,000 Asian students every year,
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a champion of open markets,
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an advocate for universal human rights,
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and a guarantor of stability and security across the Asia-Pacific.
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The United States has a strong interest in continuing its tradition of economic and strategic leadership,
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and Asia has a strong interest in the United States remaining a dynamic partner and influence.
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We are all well positioned to rise together,
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to achieve greater prosperity in partnership,
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to offer all of our people a chance at a better future.
[TEXT: www.state.gov, produced by the U.S. Department of State]