Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has thanked Joe Biden for his leadership and ongoing service after the US President withdrew his bid for re-election.

The 81-year-old Democrat posted on X that he would remain in his role as president and commander-in-chief until his term ends in January 2025 but would not stand for re-election.

He has endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris to replace him as his party’s candidate in the upcoming November election.

Early on Monday, Albanese posted a message on X thanking Biden.

“The Australia-US Alliance has never been stronger with our shared commitment to democratic values, international security, economic prosperity and climate action for this and future generations,” he wrote.

UK PM Keir Starmer:

“I respect President Biden’s decision and I look forward to us working together during the remainder of his presidency. I know that, as he has done throughout his remarkable career, President Biden will have made his decision based on what he believes is in the best interests of the American people.”

Spanish PM Pedro Sanchez on X:

“All my admiration and recognition for the brave and dignified decision of the president Joe Biden. Thanks to its determination and leadership, the US overcame the economic crisis after the pandemic and the serious assault on the Capitol and has been exemplary in its support for Ukraine in the face of Putin’s Russian aggression. A great gesture from a great president who has always fought for democracy and freedom.”

Irish PM Simon Harris:

“On behalf of the people and government of Ireland. I … would like to thank you Mr President for your global leadership and your friendship as you make your announcement that you will not stand in the 2024 US Presidential election. Joe Biden, in all the offices he has held, has always been an unwavering voice and passionate worker for peace on the island of Ireland and our country owes him a great debt for this.”

Kremlin Spokesman Dmitry Peskov speaking to SHOT news outlet:

“The elections are still four months away, and that is a long period of time in which a lot can change. We need to be patient and carefully monitor what happens. The priority for us is the special military operation [in Ukraine].”

Norwegian PM Jonas Gahr Stoere:

“I respect President Joe Biden’s decision not to run for re-election. He justifies the decision by saying that he wants to put the country before himself. That reasoning commands respect. Joe Biden has been one of America’s most prominent politicians over several decades, and a president who has carried out several important reforms. I particularly commend him for his leadership in NATO and look forward to working with Biden as the president of the United States until the end of January.”

Polish PM Donald Tusk on X:

“Mr President, many times you have made difficult decisions that have made Poland, America, and the world safer, and democracy and freedom stronger. I know that you were guided by the same principles when announcing your latest decision. Perhaps the most difficult one in your life.”

Czech PM Petr Fiala on X:

“It is undoubtedly the decision of a statesman who has served his country for decades. It is a responsible and personally difficult step, but it is all the more valuable. I am keeping my fingers crossed for the USA that a good president emerges from the democratic competition of two strong and equal candidates.”

-AAP