French president congratulates Obama on reelection

In a statement, Mr Hollande gave his “warmest congratulations” on behalf of the French republic.

“Your re-election is a clear choice in favour of an America that his open, united, fully engaged on the global scene, and conscious of the challenges facing our planet: peace, the economy, and the environment,” he said.

“I am convinced that, during your new mandate, you will continue to strengthen our partnership by favouring the return of economic growth in our countries; fighting against unemployment; and finding solutions to the crises that threaten us, notably in the Middle East,” he added.

The French economics minister Pierre Moscovici, the labour minister Michel Sapin, and former prime minister François Fillon have also praised Mr Obama’s re-election.

Recent surveys showed the French overwhelmingly support Obama being re-elected.

This is despite his Republican challenger, Mitt Romney, speaking French and having spent time in France during his youth.