(Recast) Rich countries have obligation to help developing countries pursue green growth: U.S. president

Rich countries have an obligation to help developing countries pursue a green growth strategy, visiting U.S. President Barack Obama said on Wednesday.

Obama made the remarks while meeting with young people from across Southeast Asia in a "town hall" exchange in the historical town of Luang Prabang in northern Laos.

He said green growth strategy will reduce poverty while addressing greenhouse gas emissions contributing to the climate change.

The "town hall" exchange touched on a series of topics including climate change, health, environment, trade and economy.

The U.S. president called on young people of the region to actively contribute to solutions in the face of difficulties and challenges

He cited Alibaba founder and chairman, China's Jack Ma as an example of the dynamism that could see individuals rise to their potential through innovation and enterprise. Endit