Meeting on the sidelines of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation conference, President Barack Obama sat down today with Prime Minister Yoshihiko Noda of Japan to discuss their shared interests in the region.

After exchanging pleasantries, Obama said he was “extremely impressed already by the boldness of his vision,” according to a White House media pool report. 

He confirmed the importance of the U.S.-Japanese alliance and said he was confident they can build on the relationship, adding that the American people stand beside Japan as it rebuilds from the earthquake and tsunami.

Noda said he welcomes a greater U.S. role in the region.

“I’m very much encouraged by the fact that America is increasing its presence in the Asia-Pacific region, and I do believe that Japan and the United States must work closely together to establish economic goals and also establish security order in this region,” Noda said through a translator.

Noda also spoke of the beauty of Hawaii.

"I went to the (National) Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific and laid a wreath there and I got to see the panoramic view of Honolulu," Noda said through a translator. "I renewed my recognition of how beautiful and great this city is."

Obama is scheduled to meet today with Russian Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev and Chinese President Hu Jintao.