WASHINGTON (AP) -- Hillary Rodham Clinton is looking to Asia as she plans her first trip abroad as secretary of state.

Diplomats briefed on the planning tell The Associated Press that Clinton is expected to visit key U.S. North Asian allies Japan and South Korea, as well as China, on her maiden voyage. They say she make tack on other stops, including possibly one in Southeast Asia.

The diplomats spoke on condition of anonymity because the itinerary is not final and could change. The State Department has not yet commented on Clinton's travel.

The trip would underscore the Obama administration's commitment to resolving the North Korean nuclear issue, affirm its intention to maintain strong ties with Tokyo and Seoul, and set the stage for the broader engagement with Beijing that the president and his top aides have pledged, the diplomats said.

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