United States has emphasized that India should play more of leadership role in Asia. Addressing students and popular personalities at Anna Centenary Library in Chennai, the Secretary of State Hillary Clinton said that much of the history of the 21st century will be written in Asia which in turn will be influenced by the partnership between the US and India and its relationship with neighbours. Mrs. Hillary Clinton said that it was a time for India to lead by integrating economically with neighbours like Afghanistan and Pakistan. She said that New Delhi should continue dialogue with the Myanmar Government to release other political prisoners. Commenting on the Look East Policy, Mrs. Clinton said that India’s role is not only in East Asia but it goes beyond that to mobilising strategic cooperation, security, trade and comprehensive trade deals in the region.Regarding the ASEAN Regional Forum, she said that US- India-Japan dialogue to enhance cooperation would be beneficial. Pointing out to India’s growing leadership in the world, she said that India is taking a rightful place. She said that US has recognized that India should be given a permanent seat in the UN Security Council.Complimenting the friendly relations between both the nations, Mrs. Hillary said that both the countries are abiding by deeper bonds and friendly ties in various sectors. She said that the common interests are stopping terrorism and sponsoring broad growth and deepening strategic ties.