Barack Obama actually said...

"I just want to extend my congratulations to Prime Minister Yinglak for her leadership."

"While we are not a claimant in the South China Sea dispute, and while we do not take sides, we have a powerful stake in maritime security in general, and in the resolution of the South China Sea issue..."

"We have established a great friendship over the years."

"I pledged further efforts to advance humanitarian assistance and disaster relief in the region."