US President Barack Obama departs for Asia visit

US President Barack Obama has departed for Asia.

His talks with Asian leaders are expected to focus on the America's trade deficit with China, global climate change, the DPRK and Iranian nuclear disputes, and Washington's strategy in Afghanistan.

This is the first trip to Asia for Obama since he took office. His nine-day tour will begin in Tokyo.

The agenda includes a stop in Singapore for the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summit, followed by visits to Shanghai, Beijing and Seoul.