A former Australian prime minster said the Trump administration’s treatment of longtime allies was providing an opportunity for China, in remarks that came shortly before the US president delivered a personal rebuff.

"A very good friend of mine" was how US President Donald Trump described Chinese President Xi Jinping during his election campaign last year. Then, in the days after taking office in January, Trump said he "always liked" Xi,

Talking to the media, China's Foreign Minister Wang Yi said that China and India should be partners who contribute to each other's success.

Malcolm Turnbull said Trump’s erratic behaviour towards allies creates an opportunity for China’s Xi Jinping, who presents a more consistent and respectful alternative.