Joe Biden’s election symbolises a return to normalcy and dignity in the US’s conduct on the global stage. But the world is changing rapidly, and the president-elect will need to change with it.
US President Donald Trump signs an executive order on the country’s withdrawal from the Trans Pacific Partnership.
Kevin Lamarque/Reuters
The agreement could be as good as dead, if, instead of pushing ahead without the US, its members decide to explore bilateral trade agreements with the country.
President-elect Donald Trump’s avowed opposition to the Trans Pacific Partnership will work in China’s favour.
Jason Lee/Reuters
If Beijing can bring its neighbours to accept its regional leadership, China would have successfully achieved a dramatic reduction of US influence.
US President Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama on tour by Grand Imam Ali Mustafa Yaqub at the Istiqlal Mosque in Jakarta in 2010.
Adek Berry/Reuters
Security and economic interests, in the guise of the 12-member Trans-Pacific Partnership (seven of which hail from the Asia-Pacific), are causing anxiety among US friends and allies.