For days, people around the world have been glued to the White House race.
It is not just the US that the election of a new president affects – a new leader in the White House can transform the country’s foreign policy and its approach to its friends and foes alike. Here is how some of the world’s leaders have reacted, and where they stand with the US.
Jens Stoltenberg – Nato Secretary General
“I congratulate Joe Biden on his election as the next US President & Kamala Harris as Vice President. I know Joe Biden as a strong supporter of our Alliance & look forward to working closely with him. A strong NATO is good for both North America & Europe”
Justin Trudeau – Canadian prime minister
Benjamin Netanyahu – Israeli Prime Minister
“Congratulations Joe Biden and Kamala Harris. Joe, we’ve had a long & warm personal relationship for nearly 40 years, and I know you as a great friend of Israel. I look forward to working with both of you to further strengthen the special alliance between the US and Israel. (Continued)
South Korean President Moon Jae-in enthusiastically chimed in on Sunday:
Boris Johnson – UK prime minister
“Congratulations to Joe Biden on his election… and to Kamala Harris on her historic achievement. The US is our most important ally and I look forward to working closely together on our shared priorities, from climate change to trade and security”
Angela Merkel – German chancellor
Micheál Martin – Irish taoiseach (prime minister)
“Joe Biden has been a true friend of this nation throughout his life and I look forward to working with him in the years ahead. I also look forward to welcoming him back home when the circumstances allow!”
Narendra Modi – Indian prime minister
“Congratulations Joe Biden on your spectacular victory! As the VP, your contribution to strengthening Indo-US relations was critical and invaluable. I look forward to working closely together once again…
“Heartiest congratulations Kamala Harris! Your success is path-breaking, and a matter of immense pride not just for your chittis [aunts], but also for all Indian-Americans. I am confident that the vibrant India-US ties will get even stronger with your support and leadership.”
Italian Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte
Ayatollah Ali Khamenei – Iran
“The situation in the US & what they themselves say about their elections is a spectacle! This is an example of the ugly face of liberal democracy in the US. Regardless of the outcome, one thing is absolutely clear, the definite political, civil, & moral decline of the US regime.”