Obama spruiks Australia-US ties | Gatton Business | Business News for Gatton, Australia

AAP

US President Barack Obama is keen to push stronger business and economic ties between America and Australia during his visit Down Under.

Mr Obama will address a special joint sitting of federal parliament in Canberra on March 23 after a visit to Indonesia.

He's told the Export-Import Bank's annual conference in Washington DC on Thursday (US time) that the Asia Pacific region "will be fundamental to America's ability to create jobs and to thrive in the 21st century".

"While I'm there, I'll visit Indonesia and Australia, two vibrant economies and democracies that will be critical partners for the United States," he said.

"And in both countries, I'll highlight the role that American businesses play there and underscore how strong economic partnerships can create jobs on both sides of the Pacific while advancing both regional and global prosperity."

US President Barack Obama won't be getting an Order of Australia when he visits.

Indonesian President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono received Australia's highest civilian honour at a ceremony in Canberra this week.

He was appointed an Honorary Companion in the General Division of the Order of Australia.

Prime Minister Kevin Rudd indicated Mr Obama was not in line for similar recognition.

"Not so far as I'm aware," he told Fairfax Radio Network on Friday, adding it was his call.

"But we're very mindful of what President Yudhoyono has done over a period of eight or 10 years now.

"The Bali bombings went very much to the hearts and lives of many many Australians."

Mr Rudd said the Indonesian president was honoured for his work in tracking down terrorists after the Bali bombings, as well as for strengthening democracy.