Good news at last for world

World leaders cheered Joe Biden's win as a chance to enhance cooperation on climate change, the coronavirus and other problems after four years of Donald Trump's rejection of international alliances.

Western and Asian allies expressed hope for a fresh start following Trump's American First'' trade policies, withdrawal from the Paris climate agreement and attacks on NATO and the World Health Organization.

In Asia, a region on edge about the strategic ambitions of China's ruling Communist Party, the leaders of Japan, South Korea and Taiwan invoked "shared values'' with Washington and expressed hope for close relations.

"I look forward to working with you to further strengthen the Japan-US alliance and ensure peace, freedom, and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific region and beyond,'' said Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga.

President Moon Jae In of South Korea said he looked forward to working together "for our shared values.''

There was no immediate official reaction from Beijing, which is mired in conflicts with the Trump administration over trade, security and technology. But Chinese social media users welcomed the change. A post on the Sina Weibo microblog service, signed Gong Teng Xin Yi, said, "Congratulating Biden, the old friend of Chinese people on winning the election.''

President Tsai Ing-wen of Taiwan expressed hope to "further our friendship.'' Biden had congratulated Tsai on her reelection in January, saying Taiwan is "stronger because of your free and open society.''

Most Western allies welcomed a fresh start with Washington. Many have been dismayed at Trump's criticism of decades-old military and economic alliances.

"Congratulations!" said German Chancellor Angela Merkel. "I wish luck and success from the bottom of my heart."

French President Emmanuel Macron tweeted: "Congratulations @JoeBiden and @KamalaHarris! We have a lot to do to overcome today's challenges. Let's work together!"

"I look forward to working with President-elect Biden, Vice President-elect Harris, their administration, and the United States Congress as we tackle the world's greatest challenges together,'' said Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, who was the target of personal insults by Trump.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who has been known for public displays of bonhomie with Trump, shared a photo of himself with Biden and offered his congratulations on your spectacular victory!''

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson, another Trump ally, said he looked forward to "working closely together on our shared priorities, from climate change to trade and security.''