Under a coalition led by Mr Nasheed, a liberal, the country then fumbled towards stability, holding a series of local elections, assisted by other countries, notably India.

ECONOMIST: Rival leaders bicker, and vie for help from India

President Clinton called for a series of reforms to boost the stability of global markets, to restore investor confidence in developing countries, and to help crisis-torn countries solve their economic problems.

BBC: Clinton urges global reform

"China and the United States share extensive common interests and broad prospects for cooperation on a series of major issues important to mankind's peace and stability and development, " Hu said, naming the economy, climate change and cultural exchanges among those issues.

CNN: Obama meets with Chinese premier Wen