How the world reacts to Germany’s election results?

Many countries have extended congratulations to the Social Democratic Party of Germany (SPD) following their victory in the German national election.

SPD leader Olaf Scholz celebrates his party's victory in the German election. (Photo: Reuters)
SPD leader Olaf Scholz celebrates his party's victory in the German election. (Photo: Reuters)

Official provisional results show the SPD won 25.7% of the votes, defeating the CDU/CSU with 24.1%. The Greens came third with 14.8%, followed by the FDP, AfD and the Left with 11.5%, 10.3% and 4.9% respectively.

European countries welcomed the outcome of election, with France praising the vote as a victory for “stability” and Spain predicting closer ties following the SPD’s triumph.

France’s European Affairs Minister Clement Beaune told France 2 television that “Here is a country, our close neighbour, that puts great value on moderation, stability and continuity.”

“I would say that, on a certain level, the Germans have voted for Angela Merkel,” said Beaune, noting that both Scholz and his Christian Democrat rival Armin Laschet had presented themselves in the campaign as the true heir to the outgoing chancellor, who has led Germany for 16 years.

Spain’s Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez predicted closer ties between Madrid and Berlin under an SDP-led government.

“Spain and Germany were already very united in our Europeanism and now we have the opportunity to be united in the colour and orientation of our governments,” Sanchez said during a speech in the northern city of Santander on September 27.

Sanchez earlier said on Twitter that Madrid and Berlin would continue to work together for a “stronger Europe” and “fair and green recovery” from the COVID-19 pandemic following the SDP’s win.

European Parliament President David Sassoli, who is also a member of the centre-left political alliance in the EU assembly, congratulated Scholz.

“After this historic crisis, there is no time to lose: Europe needs a strong and reliable partner in Berlin to continue our common work for a social and green recovery,” he tweeted, referring to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The EU’s executive held off from commenting, with Brussels waiting until the shape of the government is known before issuing remarks.

For its part, Russia said it hoped for “continuity” in its ties with Germany.

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said despite disagreements between Moscow and Berlin, “we are united by an understanding that problems can and should be solved only through dialogue.”

Hungarian Foreign Minister Peter Szijjarto said that Budapest was ready to work with a new German government and enhance cooperation with Berlin post-election.

Meanwhile, US President Joe Biden said “They're solid." after being told the SPD were ahead in polls.

Jalina porter, Deputy Spokesperson of the US Department of State, said the US will "await the outcome of negotiations to form the next German government. We also look forward to continuing our strong partnership with Germany on many key issues of mutual concern.”