>> reporter: there are 6500 nautical miles of pacific ocean between south-east a sha and the west coast of the united states. for the president the asean region's dynanism is central to global economic growth and security in the 21 st century. that's why he hats invited the ten leaders to come to california and have an informal discussion, basically to sure them of u.s. engagement and commitment to that region but at the same time to remind the leaders that the relationship is mutual beneficial. u.s. officials say the talks are not meant to focus on china, but they will discuss maritime security. for asean countries are embroiled in dispute over the south china sea.