But if Mr Trump pursues policies as extreme as some of the promises he made, some analysts believe Beijing could actually benefit. "It's a good sign that Mr Trump's message, even in the US, is conciliatory," said Dan Lachica, the head of the SEPI. While China has multiple disputes with Asian nations, Mr Trump has accused Beijing of building a military fortress. India's Mr Sibal also noted that Mr Trump's willingness to reach out to Russia would work in India's favour. Rajiv Kumar, senior fellow with the Centre for Policy Research, said Mr Trump's protectionist approach might put India at a disadvantage.

Source: Bangkok Post November 21, 2016 05:57 UTC