The Globe and Mail

President Barack Obama

"The people of Egypt have spoken...Egyptians have made it clear that nothing less than genuine democracy will carry the day," said Mr. Obama.

"There will be many difficult days ahead and many questions remain unanswered."

"The military has served patriotically and responsibly as a caretaker to the state and will now have to ensure a transition that is credible in the eyes of the Egyptian people," Mr. Obama said.

UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon

Mr. Ki-moon called for a "transparent, orderly and peaceful transition" in Egypt. Ban also said he wanted to see "free, fair and credible" elections.

President Nicolas Sarkozy

“France ardently hopes the new Egyptian authorities will take steps that lead to establishment of democratic institutions through free and transparent elections,” said Mr. Sarkozy.

Mr. Sarkozy described Mubarak’s decision to quit as “courageous and necessary” at a “historic moment” for Egypt after weeks of protest and demand for change.

“France urges the Egyptian authorities to proceed as fast as feasible with the reforms needed to turn Egypt into a free and pluralist society.”

NATO Secretary General, Anders Fogh Rasmussen

“I welcome President Mubarak’s decision. I have consistently called for a speedy, orderly and peaceful transition to democracy, respecting the legitimate aspirations of the people of Egypt.

In the long run, no society can neglect the will of the people. Democracy means much more than majority rule -- it also means respect for individual freedom, for minorities, human rights and the rule of law. These are the values on which our Alliance is based and the values we encourage our partners to respect.

Egypt is a valued partner in our Mediterranean Dialogue and a pivotal country in the region. I am confident Egypt will continue to be a force for stability and security,” statement by Mr. Rasmussen.

Israel Official

“It’s too early to foresee how (the resignation) will affect things,” a senior Israeli official said. “We hope that the change to democracy in Egypt will happen without violence and that the peace accord will remain.”

Prime Minister David Cameron

“Egypt now has a really precious moment of opportunity to have a government that can bring the country together. As a friend of Egypt and the Egyptian people we stand ready to help in any way we can,” Mr. Cameron said.

“What has happened today should only be the first step. Those who now run Egypt have a duty to reflect the wishes of the Egyptian people and in particular there really must be a move to civilian and democratic rule as part of this important transition to an open, democratic and free Egypt,” he added.

Prime Minister Nuri al-Maliki

“The resignation of President Hosni Mubarak is a step in the right direction because it came as a response to Egyptians’ desire and will for change, and we have confirmed trust that our sister Egypt and its great people, with their experience, history and efficiency, will select leadership that will fulfil their ambitions and keep Egypt’s security, stability and great position in the world,” said Mr. al-Maliki.

Hamas spokesman Sami Abu Zuhri

“The resignation of Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak is the beginning of the victory of the Egyptian revolution,” said Mr. Abu Zuhri.

“Such a victory was the result of the sacrifices and the steadfastness of the Egyptian people,” he said. “We call upon the new Egyptian leadership to take an immediate decision to lift the blockade of Gaza and open Rafah (border) crossing permanently to allow people’s free movement and in order for the reconstruction process of Gaza to begin,” Mr. Abu Zuhri said.

German Chancellor Angela Merkel

“Today is a day of great joy,” Ms. Merkel told a news conference. “We are all witness to an historic change. I share the joy of the people of Egypt, with the millions of people on the streets of Egypt.”

Indian Foreign Minister S.M. Krishna

“We welcome the decision of President Mubarak to step down in deference to the wishes of the people of Egypt. We also welcome the commitment of the Supreme Council of the Armed Forces to ensure a peaceful transition of power in a timebound manner to establish and open and democratic framework of governance,” Mr. Krishna said.

Egyptian secretary-general of the Arab League Amr Moussa

“I look forward to the future to build a national consensus in the coming period. There is a big chance now and a window has opened after this white revolution and after the president’s concession,” Mr. Moussa told Al Arabiya television.

Asked if he was interested in being president, he said: “This is not the time to talk about that ... As an Egyptian citizen, I am proud to serve my country with all the others at this stage, to build a consensus of opinion.”

Iran Foreign Minister Ali Akbar Salehi

“I congratulate the great Egyptian nation for this victory and we share their happiness,” Mr. Salehi was quoted as saying by state television.

“We hope that the civil movement in Egypt can complete its victory through resistance and by a strong will so that it can successfully reach all its demands.”

“It is expected that at this sensitive time, the Egyptian army which has a shining record in fighting oppression and the aggressions of the Zionist regime, carries out its historical duty by accompanying, supporting and listening to demands of its great nation until their goals are achieved.”

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov

“We hope the latest developments will help restore stability and normal functioning of all power structures. We hope that not only the government but also the opposition will show willingness to stabilise the situation,” Mr. Lavrov said.