Against the backdrop of China exerting its influence in South China Sea, US President Barack Obama today said freedom of navigation must be upheld in the Asia Pacific and welcomed a greater role for India in the region.

"United States welcomes a greater role for India in Asia Pacific where the freedom of navigation must be upheld and dispute must be resolved peacefully," he said in his town hall speech attended by a select audience comprising students, scholars and other eminent persons.

Obama also said if the two countries wanted to be "true global partners" they must do more together globally.

"So to ensure international security and peace, multi-lateral institutions created in 20th century must be updated for the 21st. Therefore, I support a reformed United Nations Security Council that includes India as a permanent member," he said.