How they see it, January 27, 2013

1. Jakarta Globe 

Given he spent part of his childhood in Indonesia, US President Barack Obama is no stranger to us, and nor are we to him. During his first term, Obama visited the country twice. And now, after his second inauguration, Indonesia-US ties look to grow even stronger. [Obama] faces great challenges at home in the next four years, but he must ensure he does not lose focus on maintaining US leadership in the world, especially in Asia. … The framework for continued US engagement with the Asia-Pacific region [was already in] place during Obama's first term. Now the challenge is to make the most of it by strengthening the political, economic and social ties between Indonesia and the United States. (Jakarta)

2. Global Times

Obama's country is suffering both economic weakness and political paralysis. Four years ago, Obama impressed many people with his demeanour and eloquence. But he has yet to make a mark on history. This doesn't mean that Obama is a failure. It reflects the fact that it is becoming increasingly difficult to manage the United States. … China also has a supersize management system which is less powerful than that of the US, but the US does not have as many contradictions within society as China. It will be a long-term test for China to grasp the new situation. … Both countries … face challenges in governance. However, the US can afford to do nothing while China must continue to move forward. (Beijing)