Obama lauds Biden's statesmanlike exit, global leaders react

Sky News reported on Sunday that former US President Barack Obama praised Joe Biden for withdrawing from the race for the office of US President but did not endorse Kamala Harris as the new candidate for the Democratic Party.

In a statement, Barack Obama said, "In the coming days, we will be navigating uncharted waters. However, I have extraordinary confidence that our party's leaders will manage to create a process from which an exceptional candidate will emerge."

Obama called Biden one of the "most important presidents of America," who was for him a "dear friend and partner".

Many foreign leaders commented on Sunday about his decision to withdraw from the race for the highest office in the US for a second term. They thanked him for cooperation and leadership on the world political stage.

"I have known President Biden for years. He is a wonderful man, and in everything he does, he is driven by love for his country. As President, he is a partner to Canadians – and a true friend," wrote Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau on social media.

The head of the Irish government, Simon Harris, thanked Biden in a special statement for his world leadership and friendship. "Joe Biden, whether in office or not, has always been an unwavering voice and passionate advocate for peace on the Irish island, and our country owes him a great debt," he assured.

Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Stoere spoke respectfully about Biden's decision to withdraw from the re-election efforts, as he wants to put the country above himself. "Joe Biden has been one of the most prominent American politicians for several decades and a president who has carried out several important reforms. I especially commend him for his leadership in NATO and look forward to working with Biden as President of the United States until the end of January," stated Stoere in Reuters.

"This is undoubtedly a decision of a statesman who has served his country for decades. It is a responsible and personally difficult step, but it is all the more valuable. I hope a good president will emerge from the crisis in a democratic competition between two strong and equal candidates," wrote Czech Prime Minister Petr Fiala on the "Z" platform.

In a statement on social media, Israeli President Isaac Herzog thanked Biden for his friendship and unwavering support for the Israeli nation during decades of political activity. "As the first US President to visit Israel during a war, as an Honorary Medal of Israel recipient, and as a true ally of the Jewish nation, he symbolises the unbreakable bond between our nations," emphasized Herzog.

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese praised Biden's accomplishments, noting, "The Australia-US alliance was stronger thanks to our shared commitment to democratic values, international security, economic prosperity, and climate action, as well as for future generations," noted the head of the Australian government.

New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon pointed out on the "X" platform that Biden dedicated his life to public service, which deserves great respect. "I thank the President for his leadership in the United States and commitment to relations with New Zealand. I look forward to working with him for the rest of his term," he added.

In the opinion of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro, Biden made the most reasonable and right decision. "His family and health were the most important priorities for him. He realized that at this age and with weakened health, he cannot take the reins of his country, let alone run for president."