World leaders hope for fresh start after Biden election win

The victory for US president-elect Joe Biden has been welcomed around the world. Picture: Carolyn Kaster/AP

World leaders have welcomed Joe Biden’s election as US president as a chance to enhance co-operation on climate change, the coronavirus pandemic, and other issues after four years of Donald Trump’s rejection of international alliances.

Mr Trump had yet to concede defeat, but Western and Asian allies were already expressing hope for a fresh start following his so-called 'America first' trade policies, withdrawal from the Paris climate agreement, and attacks on Nato and the World Health Organization.