Clinton said she discussed the territorial issue with the leaders of Japan and South Korea, which are at odds over an islet claimed by both.

"I raised these issues with both of them, urging that their interests really lie in making sure that they lower the temperature and work together in a concerted way to have a calm and restrained approach," she said.

"There does seem to be a recognition on the part of all of the leaders that this region of the world is the economic engine in what is still a fragile global economy," Clinton said.

Clinton said she would work closely with the various Asian countries to help ensure the disputes do not balloon into more serious problems.

"We can't let anything happen. It's not in the interests of any of the Asian countries and it's certainly not in the interests of the United States or the rest of the world to raise doubts and uncertainties about the stability and peace in the region," she said.