World watches U.S. showdown

LONDON, England -- Governments around the world have been on tenterhooks as the final dramatic chapter in the U.S. presidential race unfolds.

The German president was among many leaders and heads of state to have initially offered his congratulations to Republican nominee George W Bush -- only to quickly retract his statement as it became clear the race was simply too close to call.

Russia, China, Britain, France, the Netherlands, Turkey, Indonesia and the European Union all moved to welcome the Texan governor's election before rapidly backtracking as it emerged that Vice President Al Gore was still in the running.

AUDIO CNN's Walter Rodgers examines possible British reaction to the U.S. vote 34 secs/390k AIFF or WAV sound CNN's Tom Mintier explores the impact of election uncertainty on the Middle East peace process 38 secs/400k AIFF or WAV sound CNN's Steve Harrigan reports on Russia's reaction to the presidential race 33 secs/360k AIFF or WAV sound    VIDEO William Daley, Vice President Al Gore's campaign chairman, says 'our campaign continues' (November 8) Play video (QuickTime, Real or Windows Media) Latest Election 2000 video     MESSAGE BOARD Election 2000

"We are much looking forward to working with Mr Bush," European Commission President Romano Prodi told reporters in Brussels.

British Foreign Secretary Robin Cook offered similar hopes saying relations with the Bush administration would follow the traditionally close relationship between Washington and London.

"I am confident that we can build the same relationship with the new president," Cook said. "None of the fundamentals have changed."

In Moscow the RIA news agency quoted an unnamed government official as saying Bush had the experience to ensure continued good relations between the two countries.

And in the Chinese capital, Beijing, the official Xinhua news agency said China "extended its congratulations" to the Bush camp.

However, as it became clear that a Bush victory still hung in the balance politicians across the globe reined back on their comments.

Many simply shrugged their shoulders before turning back to TV coverage of the poll as the nail-biting race ground on.

"I congratulate George Bush, if it is confirmed that he has won," Britain's Foreign Secretary Cook said in a later interview.

He added that he was looking forward to working with the new president -- whoever he might be.

In Berlin, a German presidential spokeswoman asked news agencies not to publish a statement welcoming a Bush win

"What can we do?" she said. "It is complicated. One wants to be among the first sending congratulations and warm wishes."

Florida keeps Gore and Bush waiting
November 8, 2000
In Depth: Europe's view

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