U. S. Secretary of States, Hillary Clinton was in Chennai on Wednesday, where she asked India to play a role of leader in Asia, and also suggested that it should increase its traditional sphere of interest from South Asia to neighboring areas to compete with increasing Chinese boldness. Clinton also stressed that it was very important that India, China and US share a cordial relation.

She further told that the U. S and India shared values that made them powerful partners in promoting security, democracy and development in these areas. She assured India that the U. S would not allow Afghanistan to become a source of terror again. She further asserted that the U. S has constant risk in ensuring stability in India's opponent, Pakistan.

Chennai was specifically chosen to be the centre point for the meet, as US officials believe that Chennai would play a key role in East Asia development. She appreciated the democratic tradition of India, and asked that it should inspire others also to follow the similar path of honesty and patience.

Mrs. Clinton said, “We think that America and India share a fundamentally similar idea for the future of this region”.

She told that India’s leadership has the potential to shape the future of Asia-Pacific. She also asserted that India could play a major role to promote maritime security beyond its own waters.