U.S. President Barack Obama called for global unity Saturday, to
restore lending, spur job growth, reform financial regulation and fix
the economy.
In his weekly address, Mr. Obama also discussed his meetings this week
with Chinese President Hu Jintao, Russian President Dmitri Medvedev,
and America's NATO allies.
Mr. Obama said that after two days of negotiations, leaders of the G-20
nations had agreed on ways to get banks lending again, and moved to
tighten financial regulations.
The U.S. leader said he had agreed with Chinese President Hu to
establish a new strategic and economic dialogue. He also said he and
Russian President Medvedev had discussed a new treaty to reduce nuclear
arsenals.
On the subject of Afghanistan, Mr. Obama said he had asked NATO allies
for additional civilian support and assistance in the troubled country.
Mr. Obama said he has been working with other nations to find common
ground and strengthen alliances, but he cautioned there is more work to
be done.
The president said - in his words - "In the end, we recognize that no
corner of the globe can wall itself off from the threats of the 21st
century, or from the needs and concerns of fellow nations."