Jun 27 10:11 PM US/Eastern
(AP) - TORONTO, June 27 (Kyodo) — U.S. President Barack Obama said Sunday a strong alliance between Japan and the United States is good for the security of both countries and Asia as a whole.
"The U.S.-Japan alliance remains strong and vibrant. It is good for Japan's security, it is good for America's security," Obama told a press conference following a two-day summit of the Group of 20 advanced and emerging economies in Toronto.
Washington and Tokyo marked the 50th anniversary of their security treaty this year. Obama said he expects the bilateral alliance to "sustain itself for another 50 years."
Asked whether Japan should be more responsible for peace and security in the Asia-Pacific region, Obama said he wants to make sure that all countries in the area "are meeting their responsibilities" through dialogue at such forums as the Association of Southeast Asian Nations and the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation forum.
"I think if we adhere to that basic principle, then a strong U.S.- Japan alliance is something that can continue to be a cornerstone of a peaceful and prosperous Asia, which will benefit all people," Obama said.
Obama also called on China to "seriously" consider how to respond to the deadly sinking in March of a South Korean warship for which North Korea, Beijing's major ally, has been blamed.
Obama asked for China's cooperation in seeking a resolution denouncing North Korea at the U.N. Security Council when he met with Chinese President Hu Jintao on Saturday on the sidelines of the summit, according to U.S. officials. China, one of the five veto-holding permanent members on the Security Council, is believed to be reluctant about taking tough action against North Korea.
Obama showed some understanding toward Beijing's response to the vessel sinking, which left 46 South Korean sailors dead.
"But I think there's a difference between restraint and willful blindness to consistent problems," Obama said. "My hope is that President Hu will recognize...that this is an example of Pyongyang going over the line in ways that just have to be spoken about seriously."
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