International Leaders React To U.S. Election

3 November 2004 -- The German Foreign Ministry's top official for relations with the United States, Karsten Voigt, said today that if reelected, U.S. President George W. Bush should use the chance for a new beginning in U.S.-European and U.S.-German relations and concentrate on common interests.

French Foreign Minister Michel Barnier also said he hoped for a "new phase" in trans-Atlantic relations following the outcome of the U.S. presidential race.

U.S. Ambassador to the European Union Rockwell Schnabel said in Brussels that regardless of who wins there would be a "renewed commitment to reach out to Europe."

Japanese Prime Minister Junichiro Koizumi said whoever wins relations between his country and the United States would not change much.

Australian Foreign Minister Robert Downer also said U.S. cooperation with his country would not be much affected by the results of the U.S. presidential election.

(AP/Reuters/AFP)