World leaders have reacted to the surprise announcement by US President Joe Biden to quit the re-election race set for November. Allies of the United States lauded Biden’s decades of government service and discussed him as a partner in international security.
Former president Barack Obama, with whom Biden served two terms as vice president, praised his record in office.
"Joe Biden has been one of America’s most consequential presidents, as well as a dear friend and partner to me. Today, we’ve also been reminded — again — that he’s a patriot of the highest order," Obama said in a statement on X.
He (Biden) restored America's standing in the world, revitalised NATO, and mobilised the world to stand up against Russian aggression in Ukraine, said the former US President.
While he had every right to run for re-election, Biden's decision to drop out of the race was testament to his "love of country", Obama added.
"Dear President Joe Biden," wrote Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk on X, "you've taken many difficult decisions thanks to which Poland, America and the world are safer, and democracy stronger."
"I know you were driven by the same motivations when announcing your final decision. Probably the most difficult one in your life," said the Polish PM.
UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer said that he "respected" Biden's decision and called his career "remarkable".
"I respect President Biden's decision and I look forward to us working together during the remainder of his presidency," Starmer said in a statement.
"I know that, as he has done throughout his remarkable career, he will have made his decision based on what he believes is best for the American people."
German Chancellor Olaf Scholz wrote on X: "My friend Joe Biden has achieved a lot for his country, for Europe, for the world. Thanks to him, transatlantic cooperation is close, NATO is strong and the US is a good and reliable partner for us. His decision not to run again deserves respect."
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy who met with Biden at last week's NATO Summit as the country endures its third year of war with Russia, said that Ukraine was "grateful to President Biden for his unwavering support for Ukraine's fight for freedom, which, along with strong bipartisan support in the United States, has been and continues to be critical."
Israel's Defence Minister Yoav Gallant thanked Biden for his "unwavering support of Israel over the years".
Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau also thanked Biden for his years of service. "He's a great man, and everything he does is guided by his love for his country," he wrote on X.
"As president, he is a partner to Canadians -- and a true friend. To President Biden and the First Lady: thank you."
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese wrote on X, "Thank you for your leadership and ongoing service President Biden. The Australia-US Alliance has never been stronger with our shared commitment to democratic values, international security, economic prosperity and climate action for this and future generations."
As Biden announced to step down from the presidential race, he endorsed Vice President Kamala for the top post. Harris vowed to united Democrats and defeat Donald Trump.