Schulz on the result of the US presidential elections

“The US electorate has spoken. The victory of Donald Trump is unequivocal and must be respected. I congratulate him and the Republican Party on their victory.

Mr Trump has managed to become the standard-bearer of the angst and fears of millions of Americans. Those concerns must now be addressed with credible policies and proposals.

This campaign will not be remembered as America’s finest. Vitriol and polarisation have fuelled this electoral contest. President Trump will have the daunting task of bringing together a divided nation.

Most questions concerning the external outlook of the future Trump presidency are yet to be answered. From Syria to Iraq, from Ukraine to Libya, Trump’s role in diplomacy and deal-making will be tested from day-one and will require the right mix of responsibility, restraint and leadership.

Global politics requires the continuous engagement of the US to make the world a better place to leave to our children. From the fight against global warming to its commitment to NATO i, the world awaits and hopes for an outward-looking presidency aiming at shaping international relations and upholding the values of freedom and democracy.

The EU i is the largest trading partner of the US. Together, our economies account for more than 40% of the entire world GDP and for nearly a third of world trade flows. Our partnership goes from the fight against terrorism to scientific and academic exchanges. EU-US relations are a key component of global stability. The EU is committed to maintain this relationship. We hope the same holds true for the future US President.”