Trip to Asia significant

Events in the Pacific Rim have taken on greater significance in the wake of the global financial crisis and threatening rhetoric from North Korea. It is not happenstance that Hillary Clinton's first overseas visit as secretary of state is to the Pacific Rim.

As Clinton explains, "We're going to be listening, but we're also going to be asking for more partnerships to come together to try to work with us on problems that none of us can handle alone."

Beijing has a unique role in addressing North Korea's stated goal of nuclear proliferation. China's leadership role in the six-party talks on North Korea's nuclear program is valuable. China occupies a unique role in these negotiations because North Korea cannot get through the day without trade and assistance from China. Although North Korean leaders are now threatening to test what is believed to be a long-range missile, they have to at least consider the implications of such a move with other parties to the talks and China's strategic interests with those nations.

The worldwide economic crisis, however, looms large. China and Japan play integral roles in restoring confidence and stability to world economic markets. Japan, which is struggling with deep economic problems and an unpopular government, needs reassurance of its importance in the international arena.

China, meanwhile, has become one of the world's leading economic powers. Its trade with Africa has multiplied tenfold since 2000, nearing $107 billion last year alone.

China also finances more than $1 trillion in U.S. debt. It has purchased more governmental securities than almost any other country. As China goes, the United States will go.

The inverse is true, however. China's economy depends on a thriving American economy to provide demand for the consumer goods it manufactures.

Our futures are clearly intertwined. For the short term, at least, righting the worldwide economy must take precedence in international relations.

In time though, Clinton must resume work on the issues where the United States differs with China ?— human rights, China's military buildup and Darfur — to name a few.

China's role as a worldwide economic force cannot be underestimated. However, it has much work to do to be recognized as a respected and responsible player on the world stage.