It reinforces the government's narrative that China under the Communist Party is rapidly emerging as a benevolent regional actor just as the U.S. is struggling to retain the influence it has had in the Asia-Pacific since 1945.

WSJ: China Adds Aircraft Carrier to Its Navy

The investment in Asia during Mr Obama's first term and the work done by Ms Clinton over the last four years has bolstered American credibility and influence in Asia and set the stage for Mr Kerry to begin sketching out with allies in the region "what we want to achieve over the next four years".

BBC: 'Stern test' for Kerry over Korea