US midterms: International politicians react to Democrats winning - The Straits Times

The Democrats’ wins in the US midterm elections could have major implications for global trade, security and energy prices.

Governments and politicians around the world reacted to the Democrats winning the US midterm elections, a result that could have major implications for global trade, security and energy prices.

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez attends a European Union leaders summit in Brussels, Belgium on Oct 16.

“Yesterday, the American people voted against policies that only serve to impoverish people. Against hatred. Against sexism. Against climate denial and against the privileges of the elites.

“It happened in Brazil. It has just happened in the US. And it will happen soon in Spain.”

Norway's Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Store looks on during the Warsaw Security Forum in Warsaw, Poland, on Oct 12.

“This is a powerful political signal about a change of course among American voters.

“Voices are now emerging in American politics that are closer to us than the President and the administration have stood for, for example on climate and environment, and in foreign policy and development aid policy.”

“The Ministry of Foreign Affairs continues to closely monitor developments in the US midterm elections. Our country’s policy towards the United States has always been guided by the principles of non-partisanship, building broad-based goodwill, and active engagement, and has long enjoyed the consistent support of parties in the US Congress, and the executive branch.

“Building on this foundation, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs will continue to deepen comprehensive cooperation with the United States across various fields – including security, trade, technology and education – to ensure that the US Congress and local governments continue to prioritise and support US-Taiwan relations and issues of mutual concern.”

Ramaphosa told reporters the results will “introduce a new era in world relations”.

“We have seen that the Democrats have taken control of the Senate and of the House, and the people of America have spoken.”

“Not because everything now changes for the better, but because it could benefit the support for Ukraine, the green transition, and relations with the rest of the world.

“But the EU must continue the course of standing stronger and standing on its own two feet. That's not up for debate.”

“Greek-American relations will remain strong. The United States is our strategic ally, and this will continue for major projects and all major agreements. Nothing will be affected by this outcome. It is obvious that we respect every outcome; the conclusions are clear.

“Beyond that, what I can tell you is that it appears that on the key committees there will be individuals with whom the Greek government has very good relations, and that is important for the country.”

“Let’s wait for the final results. The Democratic Party leadership’s approach to relations with Russia is sharply negative. There is nothing new about that.

“Our principled and consistent line regarding Ukraine – as well as our foreign policy in general – is not based on short-term considerations and, naturally, does not depend on the fluctuations of the political barometer in other countries. We will continue our work in accordance with the directives of the President of the Russian Federation.”

“Regardless of the outcome of this election, the Japan-US alliance is the cornerstone of Japan’s foreign and security policy.

“As the international situation becomes turbulent and increasingly uncertain, a strong Japan-US alliance is essential for maximising Japan’s national interests and for peace and stability in the international community.” REUTERS