The American neglect of the Asia-Pacific region and its policy concerns has not only alienated its friends in the region. It has also hurt long term U.S. economic and strategic interests.

The aftermath of 9/11 led to a US foreign policy fixation on terrorist roots in the Mideast. Meanwhile, the Pacific Rim got the cold shoulder, alienating friends in the region and damaging strategic interests.

As Obama contemplates a new strategy for Afghanistan, he should consider integrating the conservative values of fiscal discipline and limited government into his foreign policy decision-making.

Even a Roosevelt, a Kennedy or Reagan would have to deal with the reality that is facing Obama, in which domestic resistance and rising global challenges make it difficult for Washington to secure its military and economic hegemony.