By Arun Kumar

Washington, Feb 23 (IANS) Citing a recent US trade mission to India, US President Barack Obama has vowed "to bat for America's businesses around the world" as he outlined his vision for America's economic recovery.

Attending what he billed as a "listening" event with small-business leaders in Cleveland, Ohio, Tuesday, Obama cited the example of a small company which manufactures flexible liquid crystal displays at a "first of its kind in the world" state-of-the-art production line in Kent.

Dr. Albert Green, the CEO of Kent Displays, wants to keep his manufacturing base in Ohio, he said. "But to keep up with global competition, he's got to be able to invest in new technology, and he's got to draw on a highly skilled local workforce, and he's got to sell his products around the world easily."

So he participated in the forum's exports session with Commerce Secretary Gary Locke Tuesday and he also joined a trade mission to India, Obama recalled. "And everywhere they went people were asking: Are your products made in America?" he said.

"The world wants American goods. And my administration is going to go to bat for America's businesses around the world. You should know that," he declared.

With a battery of Cabinet members and advisors in tow Obama said government should invest in education and research with the intent of helping American small business expand into globally competitive industries.

"When it comes to our economy, it's the small businesses that pack the biggest punch," Obama told a crowd of more than a hundred entrepreneurs gathered at Cleveland State University.

"Small businesses create 2 out of every 3 new jobs.... So we're here to gain your counsel - to talk about how America can help you succeed."

In the coming months, the White House plans to do eight more such road shows, which aides say will focus on a diverse array of audiences and regions.