Global leaders react to Joe Biden's US presidential election win

World leaders have been sending their congratulations to US president-elect Joe Biden - AFP
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Joe Biden has promised to be a "President for all Americans" after topping the 270 electoral college votes needed for victory over Donald Trump in the US presidential race.

The former vice-president was called as the winner of Pennsylvania on Saturday, meaning he has an insurmountable lead in the race for the White House.

Mr Biden, who also won Nevada, said he is "honoured" that America has "chosen me to lead our great country", adding that it is time for the US to "unite" and "heal".

Prime Minister Boris Johnson congratulated Mr Biden and Vice President-Elect Kamala Harris, adding: "The US is our most important ally and I look forward to working closely together on our shared priorities, from climate change to trade and security."

Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab also congratulated the victors, adding: "It was a close contest and @realDonaldTrump fought hard. Looking forward to working with the new administration - the UK US friendship has always been a force for good in the world."

Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer congratulated president-elect Mr Biden, praising his campaign for "decency, integrity, compassion and strength", and predicted the win would see the US play a more central role on the world stage once again.

Read all the reaction from around the world:

Donald Tusk, Former European Council President: "Trump’s defeat can be the beginning of the end of the triumph of far-right populisms also in Europe. Thank you, Joe."

Micheal Martin, Irish prime minister: "Ireland takes pride in Joe Biden's election, just as we are proud of all the generations of Irish women and Irish men and their ancestors whose toil and genius have enriched the diversity that powers America. "Joe Biden has always been a stalwart friend and supporter of Ireland, including of the prosperity, stability and opportunity made possible by the Good Friday Agreement, to which he has pledged his ongoing steadfast support."

Justin Trudeau, Canadian prime minister: "On behalf of the Government of Canada, I congratulate Joe Biden and Kamala Harris on their election as the next President and Vice President of the United States of America. Canada and the United States enjoy an extraordinary relationship – one that is unique on the world stage."

Angela Merkel, German Chancellor: "Congratulations! I wish luck and success from the bottom of my heart. Our transatlantic friendship is irreplaceable if we want to overcome the great challenges of our times."

Emmanuel Macron, president of France: "The Americans have chosen their President. Congratulations @JoeBiden and @KamalaHarris! We have a lot to do to overcome today’s challenges. Let's work together!"

Olaf Scholz, German finance minister: "Congratulations, Mr President-Elect. Now there is a chance for a new and exciting chapter in transatlantic relations. The US remains Europe's most important and closest partner."

Kyriakos Mitsotakis, Greek prime minister: "Congratulations to US President-Elect @JoeBiden. Joe Biden has been a true friend of Greece and I'm certain that under his presidency the relationship between our countries will grow even stronger."

Bernie Sanders, Vermont senator: I want to congratulate all those who worked so hard to make this historic day possible. Now, through our continued grassroots organizing, let us create a government that works for ALL and not the few. Let us create a nation built on justice, not greed and bigotry.

Jeb Bush, former Florida governor: "Congratulations to President-elect Biden. I have prayed for our President most of my adult life. I will be praying for you and your success. Now is the time to heal deep wounds. Many are counting on you to lead the way."

Cindy McCain, widow of Arizona senator John McCain: "It's time to move beyond politics and toward building a stronger america. I know Joe will unify the country toward a better future."

Bill Gates, Microsoft founder: "Congratulations to President-Elect Biden and Vice President-Elect Harris. Thank you to the election officials and campaign workers who worked tirelessly to ensure a record number of Americans could cast a ballot and have it counted during such a challenging time for our country."