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 Brussels 05/11/08: In Obama's father's village, Siaya and throughout Kenya, people have been celebrating all night. Rumour has it that a Kenyan power company has even pledged to install electricity in the village and that other companies have talked about constructing tarmac roads to it. Kenya has declared Thursday a public holiday in honour of Obama's victory.
Photo by Stella Maranga, 6/11/2008 | Kenya is not alone in looking forward to Obama's engagement with Africa. European Commission President José Manuel Barroso and other EU leaders congratulated Senator Obama on his election, expressing hope that there would be "renewed commitment" from Europe and the United States to tackling the ongoing financial crisis and foreign policy issues. Barroso said “We need a new deal for a new world.” |
Click here to read an opinion piece by Mohiuddin Ahmad, Bangladesh, and click here to see quotes from Africa - Click here to read an opinion piece by Prerna Bomzan, Nepal
- Click on "read more" below to read a collection of quotes from European and world leaders
"By choosing you, the American people have chosen change, openness and optimism. At a time when all of us must face huge challenges together, your election raises great hope in France, in Europe and elsewhere in the world." Nicolas Sarkozy, French president
"The relationship between the United States and the United Kingdom is vital to our prosperity and security. "Barack Obama ran an inspirational campaign, energising politics with his progressive values and his vision for the future. I know Barack Obama, and we share many values." Gordon Brown, UK prime minister
"I sincerely hope that with the leadership of President Obama, the United States of America will join forces with Europe to drive this new deal - for the benefit of our societies, for the benefit of the world." José Manuel Barroso, European Commission president
"I want to congratulate Barack Obama on his impressive election victory. Elections are about political renewal. The campaign has been exciting and uplifting and the turnout impressive.
The sense of renewal also applies to the transatlantic relations. Europeans and Americans are keen to open a new chapter in their relations" Javier Solana, EU High Representative
"If we are able to live in freedom, if we have been able to ensure peace on our continent for 60 years, it is thanks to the sacrifices of many Americans." "The European centre-right is calling today for a renewal of the EU-US partnership. Our political family will take on its share of the work". Joseph Daul MEP, Chairman of the EPP-ED Group
"The government of Nepal wishes to congratulate Barack Obama. For all the underprivileged people and the people suffering from various discriminations across the world, this is a matter of joy.” Upendra Yadav, Nepali Foreign Minister
"Your election… carries with it hope for millions of your countrymen and women as much as it is for millions of people of … African descent both in the continent of Africa as well as those in the diaspora" Kgalema Motlanthe, South African President
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