World reacts to Obama´s win

WATCH VIDEO

Source: CCTV.com | 11-06-2008 09:47

Obama's win has generated waves of celebrations across eastern Africa, especially in his father's home country of Kenya.

But reactions are a bit cooler in other parts of the world, including the Middle East.

Many people hope an Obama presidency will help this challenged continent.(CCTV.com)

People in Iraq and Iran say they have mixed feelings about Obama's election. Wang Guan takes a closer look.

They are singing, dancing and chanting their hero's name.

People across the Kenyan capital of Nairobi are celebrating Barack Obama's victory. The country's president declared a public holiday on Thursday in honor of Obama whom they call "the son of Africa".

Many people hope an Obama presidency will help this challenged continent. Some are looking for more US aid to Africa. Others are simply basking in the glory of a successful politician with African roots.

In the Mid-east, people are more concerned with practical problems facing their countries.

Residents in the Iraqi capital of Baghdad say they don't think Obama's policy towards Iraq will vary much from that of George W. Bush.

Khalid Mohsen, Resident, said, "We expected that Obama would win the election. We hope the US policy towards Iraq will change for the better. The upcoming days will prove that. But I think the American policy will be the same."

In neighboring Iran, many hope for an improvement in the frozen relations between Tehran and Washington.

Fatemeh Alia, Memver of Iranian Parliament, said, "Either of the candidates who becomes president should correct their dominating approach that tries to impose sanctions on the Islamic Republic for its peaceful nuclear activities. I think if Mr. Obama chooses to correct such an approach, he may be able to make up for the past."

Local analysts warned the Iranian government would not be happy with a Democrat in the White House.

Obama has called for an opening up towards US adversaries, such as Iran and Cuba. But the situation can prove to be tougher than he thought once he takes office next January.

Editor:Zhang Pengfei