Factbox-Foreign leaders react to the end of Biden's re-election campaign by Reuters
(Reuters) – The following is the reaction from abroad to US President Joe Biden's decision on Sunday to withdraw from his campaign to seek re-election in November:
BRITISH PRIME MINISTER KEIR STARMER:
“I respect President Biden's decision and look forward to working together for the remainder of his presidency,” Starmer said in a statement.
“I know that, as he has done throughout his incredible career, President Biden will have made a decision based on what he believes is in the best interest of the American people.”
SPANISH PRIME MINISTER PEDRO SANCHEZ ON X:
“All my admiration and respect for the courageous and dignified presidential decision of the president @JoeBiden. Thanks to his determination and leadership, the US overcame the economic difficulties after the epidemic and the terrible attack on the Capitol and set an example in supporting Ukraine. in the face of the aggression of Putin of Russia. A good action from the president a great man who always fights for democracy and freedom.
IRISH MINISTER SIMON HARRIS:
“On behalf of the people and government of Ireland. I would like to thank Mr. President for your global leadership and your friendship as you make the announcement that you will not run in the 2024 US Presidential election,” Harris said in a statement.
“Joe Biden, in every office he has held, has been an unwavering voice and a passionate worker for peace on the island of Ireland and our country owes him a great deal.”
KREMLIN spokesman DMITRY PESKOV speaking to SHOT news channel:
“The elections are still four months away, and that is a long time when a lot can change. We need to be patient and carefully monitor what is happening. What is important for us is a special military operation,” said Peskov, speaking. in the war in Ukraine.
NORWEGIAN PRIME MINISTER JONAS GAHR STORERE:
“I respect President Joe Biden's decision not to run for re-election. He justifies the decision by saying he wants to put the country before himself. That thinking commands respect,” said Stoere in a statement sent to Reuters.
“Joe Biden has been one of the most outstanding American politicians in decades, and a president who has made significant changes. I admire him greatly for his leadership in NATO and I look forward to working with Biden as president of the United States until the end of January.”
POLISH PRIME MINISTER DONALD TUSK ON X:
“Mr. President @JoeBiden, many times you made difficult decisions that made Poland, America, and the world safe, and democracy and freedom strengthened. I know you were guided by the same principles when you announced your latest decision. Perhaps the most difficult of your life.”
CZECH PRIME MINISTER PETR FIALA ON X:
“There is no doubt that it is the decision of an officer who has served his country for decades. It is a responsible and personally difficult step, but it is very important. I look for the USA for a good president to come out of the democratic competition of two strong and equal candidates.”
