'I don't think an Obama administration will make big changes in policy towards China. But there will be a shift in emphasis to more pressure on trade and currency issues, as well as human rights and the environment and climate change.

I expect less friction over China as a traditional security threat.'

JAPAN

KOICHI Nakano, political- science professor, Sophia University:

'Japan's conservative leaders have had an easier time dealing with Republicans than Democrats in the past, so I'm sure they are worried.

'I don't think the (US-Japan) alliance will change much immediately. The biggest issue facing both countries and the world is economic in nature. Ties with Japan will be valuable... Democrats in the past have been more into revitalising ties with China.

This will concern Japanese policymakers.'

PAKISTAN

SHAMSHAD Ahmed Khan, former Pakistani foreign secretary:

'Everybody wants change in America's policies. Terrorism is an issue above party politics in Washington. Democrats have always behaved with restraint.

They believe in engagement.'

SOUTH KOREA

KIM Sung Han, professor of international relations at Korea University in Seoul:

'The Bush administration was preoccupied with Iraq and theMiddle East. China has been established as the champion of Asian multilateralism and regionalism.

Mr Obama will put more emphasis on Asian policy.'

Chun Bong Geun, expert at Institute of Foreign Affairs and National Security in Seoul:

'Looking from his reaction to terrorism delisting, Mr Obama wants more active engagement in dialogue with North Korea.

For him, dialogue is not an incentive and reward for the North, as it was for Mr Bush and even Mr Clinton. Dialogue is meant to solve problems.- REUTERS