At a time when some doubt the benefits of cooperation between the United States and China, this visit is also a chance to demonstrate a simple truth.

WHITEHOUSE: China State Visit Arrival Ceremony

To the contrary, China is building long-term trade relations with Africa that should help open up opportunities for trilateral cooperation, especially at a time when both Africa and the United States will be seeking to improve trade cooperation with Asia.

FORBES: Africa And Obama: What The Continent Should Do In His Second Term

Leon Panetta, our Secretary of Defense, will be traveling to Israel to further consult and find additional ways that we can ensure such cooperation at a time when, frankly, the region is experiencing heightened tensions.

WHITEHOUSE: President Obama Signs US-Israel Enhanced Security Cooperation Act | The White House