OBAMA ARRIVES IN CHINA ON 1ST STOP ON ASIA TOUR

JOSH LEDERMAN,Associated Press

BEIJING (AP) – President Barack Obama is opening a three-country tour of the Asia-Pacific region with a stop in China.

Obama arrived on Monday morning in Beijing after an overnight flight from Washington. He plans to give a speech about U.S.-Asia ties at a high-level Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summit. He’ll also join key Asian leaders for dinner before a performance and fireworks at the Beijing National Aquatics Center.

During the visit, Obama will also meet with Chinese President Xi Jinping (shee jihn-peeng) before the state visit draws to a close Wednesday and Obama flies to Myanmar.

Last week, Obama’s political party was pummeled in the midterm elections. His visit to Asia will test his ability to play a commanding role on the world stage during his final two years in office.