Barack Obama praises Biden, foreign leaders commend his legacy

Former U.S. President Barack Obama praised Joe Biden for withdrawing from the race for the U.S. presidency but did not endorse Kamala Harris as the new Democratic Party candidate, Sky News reported on Sunday.

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

Obama called Biden one of "America's most important presidents," and described him as "a dear friend and partner."

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

"I have known President Biden for years. He is a great man and in everything he does, he is guided by love for his country. As president, he is a partner of the Canadians—and a true friend," Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau wrote on social media.

Irish government head Simon Harris thanked Biden in a special statement for his leadership in the world 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 bid, noting his desire to put the country above himself. "Joe Biden has been one of America’s most outstanding politicians for decades and a president who has carried out several important reforms. I especially congratulate him on his leadership in NATO and look forward to working with Biden as President of the United States until the end of January," Stoere underlined in a statement to Reuters.

"This is undoubtedly a statesman's decision, marked by decades of service to his country. It is a responsible and personally difficult step, but all the more valuable. I am keeping my fingers crossed for the U.S. to emerge from the crisis with a good president in a democratic competition of two strong and equal candidates," Czech Prime Minister Petr Fiala wrote on the online platform "Z".

In a social media statement, Israeli President Isaac Herzog thanked Biden for his friendship and unwavering support for the Israeli nation over several decades of political activity. "As the first U.S. president to visit Israel during wartime, as an honoree of the Honorary Presidential Medal of Israel, and as a true ally of the Jewish nation, he symbolizes the unbreakable bond between our nations," Herzog emphasized.

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

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

Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro believes Biden made the wisest and right decision. "His top priority was his family and health. He realized that at this age and with failing health, he couldn't take the reins of his country, let alone run for president."