Obama talks up trade with Australia
Updated
Trade talks: US President Barack Obama (Official White House Photo: Pete Souza)
United States president Barack Obama says trade will be one of the key topics when he begins a visit to Indonesia and Australia next week.
Mr Obama says that with millions of Americans out of work, the Asia-Pacific region is crucial to helping the US create jobs.
"While I'm there I'll visit Indonesia and Australia, two vibrant economies and democracies that will be critical partners for the United States," he said.
"In both countries I'll highlight the role that American businesses play there, and underscore how strong economic partnerships can create jobs on both sides of the Pacific."
New figures show the US trade deficit has narrowed slightly to just over $37 billion, but exports and imports both declined.
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