Ambassador Jeffrey Bleich held his first news conference yesterday immediately after he presented his credentials to Governor-General Quentin Bryce.

Declaring the United States had ''no better friend in the world'' than Australia, Mr Bleich said he was looking forward to making a close international partnership even closer.

He said President Barack Obama had given him a simple instruction, ''To listen and be a good partner''.

The ambassador said Australia's national debate on climate change was being watched with keen interest in the United States and around the world.

''Australia is a key leader on this issue, and a great thought partner to the United States on the issue of climate change,'' he said.

''As the President has said it is going to be up to every nation including the United States, China and other world leaders to take the initiative to demonstrate their own commitment.

''We've been very impressed with the commitment of Australia and the robust debate that you've had.''

Mr Bleich highlighted a range of interests shared by the US including management of the global economy, climate change, combating terrorism and the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction. There was also a strong trade relationship and cultural exchange.

Prime Minister Kevin Rudd announced yesterday he would visit Mr Obama in Washington next week for talks ahead of the Copenhagen climate change summit.

Mr Bleich said he had no doubt Mr Obama would make a return visit to Australia. ''I know that the President is very excited to come to Australia, I can't say precisely when that will be but I am confident that it will be within his first term,'' he said.

The ambassador was accompanied at his first press conference by his wife, Rebecca, and children, Jake, Matthew and Abby.

Asked if he had any noteworthy experiences since arriving in Australia on Monday, Mr Bleich said his family had nearly caused a traffic accident shortly after their arrival as they suddenly pulled off a road to catch their first glimpse of some of Canberra's kangaroos.

''But I think the thing that has struck us most is the genuine affection and friendship we have received from the Australian people,'' he said.