WHO: American University U.S. and Asia policy experts

WHAT: Discussion and Analysis of President Obama’s Asia Trip to Japan, South Korea, Malaysia and the Philippines

WHEN: April 21 - ongoing

WHERE: Via telephone, in-studio, or at American University

Contact: J. Paul Johnson, American University Communications, 202-885-5943 or via e-mail: [email protected].

April 21, 2014 (Washington, DC) --The following American University experts are available to discuss President Obama’s trip to Asia this week. The list is broken down by specific countries being visited. Additionally, the professors are available to discuss the U.S. foreign policy pivot and whether President Obama can reassure allies’ doubts about U.S. commitment to the region.

Japan & South KoreaQuansheng Zhao, director of American University’s Center for Asian Studies, is a specialist in international relations and comparative politics focusing on East Asia. Zhao is the author of Interpreting Chinese Foreign Policy (Oxford University Press), and Japanese Policymaking (Oxford University Press/Praeger). His most recent edited book is Managing the China Challenge: Perspectives from the Globe. Specifically, Zhao is available to discuss Obama’s Japan and South Korea visits.

Lou Goodman, professor and dean emeritus of the School of International Service, focuses on politics and social change in Asia. Goodman is particularly interested in South Korea and Japan where he forged several relationships as dean. Goodman can address Obama’s visit to Japan and South Korea in addition to the U.S. pivot towards Asia.

Malaysia & PhilippinesAmitav Acharya, chair of American University’s ASEAN Studies Center and current president of the International Studies Association is an expert on Southeast Asia, multilateralism and global governance, human security, and international relations theory. Acharya is author of The End of the American World Order (Wiley, Polity Press, May 2014). Acharya is available to discuss Obama’s visit to ASEAN member states Malaysia and the Philippines in addition to issues related to ASEAN, the South China Sea, rebalancing/pivot, and human rights.

Pek Koon Heng, assistant professor in the School of International Service, focuses her research on international relations and international political economy in Southeast and East Asia. As a contractor, Heng runs the Insular Southeast Asia Advanced Area Studies Program at the State Department Foreign Service Institute which prepares U.S. Foreign Service Officers for assignments in the region. Specifically, Heng is available to discuss Obama’s visit to Malaysia and the Philippines.

U.S. Foreign Policy Pivot to AsiaJames Goldgeier, dean of American University’s School of International Service, is an expert U.S. foreign policy and contemporary international relations. Specifically, Goldgeier can discuss the U.S. pivot to Asia fits into overall American foreign policy.