SINGAPORE (Reuters) - Democrat Barack Obama won an extraordinary two-year struggle for the White House Tuesday, beating Republican John McCain to become the first black president in U.S. history.
Following are quotes from world leaders:
NICOLAS SARKOZY, FRENCH PRESIDENT
"With the world in turmoil and doubt, the American people, faithful to the values that have always defined America's identity, have expressed with force their faith in progress and the future.
"At a time when we must face huge challenges together, your election has raised enormous hope in France, in Europe and beyond. France and Europe ... will find a new energy to work with America to persevere peace and world prosperity."
STEPHEN HARPER, CANADIAN PRIME MINISTER
"I look forward to meeting with the President-elect so that we can continue to strengthen the special bond that exists between Canada and the United States.
"In the weeks and months ahead Canadian officials and diplomats will be working closely with members of President-elect Obama's transition team. Ministers in our government look forward to building a strong working relationship with their counterparts in a new Obama cabinet."
HELEN CLARK, NEW ZEALAND PRIME MINISTER
"The New Zealand Government very much looks forward to working with the new Obama administration.
"Senator Obama will be taking office at a critical juncture. There are many pressing challenges facing the international community, including the global financial crisis and global warming. We look forward to working closely with President-elect Obama and his team to address these challenges."
PAKISTANI EMBASSY IN WASHINGTON
"President (Asif Ali) Zardari expressed the hope that Pakistan-U.S. relations will be enhanced under the new American leadership that received a popular mandate in Tuesday's poll."
i know the first year will be hard
and people will talk bad about him
and all the ones who have their hopes high will be sad
but it will get better
change is a slow difficult process
My postpartum depression is setting in. I'm not sad about Barack winning, I'm just sad that the anticipation and build-up is all over. It was scary but kind of fun getting so involved and active. There's still a lot to look forward to but I'm depressed that my state is basically voting opposite my choices on the props. The same-sex marriage one is upsetting on so many levels because this is such a blue state and yet people are hypocritical enough to vote to eliminate marriage for all. Personally, I could care less whether gay marriage passes or not because it doesn't affect me in my personal life but it does affect some of my loved ones. But that's exactly my point though--if an issue doesn't affect you then you shouldn't vote against it. You should allow those people to conduct their personal lives in a way they see fit.
Im so happy that Obama won. I was also really impressed with McCain's speech follwing the result. I dont like McCain whatsoever but his speech was very dignified and honourable.
I must say, I'd hate to be on the wrong side of history today. After being around my mother and some friends during the time Obama was predicted the winner, the feeling was so surreal that I really do pity anyone who feels bitter when the rest of the world feels overwhelmed with joy. It's very likely that such a moment will never happen again in our lifetime.
One thing I haven't heard much about yet is how incredibly smooth the election day was. I haven't heard about any major problems or mischief making at all. That's a big leap from last time.
I'm watching a news right now. My goodness, everyone around the world is so excited that Obama has been elected. We are definitely going to rebuild our reputation!