HispanicBusiness

French President Francois Hollande on Wednesday congratulated U.S. President Barack Obama on his re-election, saying Obama's victory is "a clear choice for an open, united America."

"On behalf of all the French and in my own name, I extend the warmest congratulations to you. This is an important moment not only for the United States but also for the world," the French head of state said in a statement released by the Presidency office.

Hollande said Obama's re-election is "a clear choice in favor of an open, united America, that is fully committed to the international stage and aware of our planet's challenges: peace, economy and environment."

The French president stressed that his country shares common values with the United State and looks to "further strengthen our partnership to promote the economic recovery, fight unemployment and find solutions to crises that threaten us, especially in the Middle East."

Hollande said France will cooperate with the United States in the spirit of dialogue, esteem and respect, and is committed to strengthen friendship ties and trust between the two countries.

Obama was re-elected as U.S. President early Wednesday, beating his Republican challenger Mitt Romney.