Labour leader Joseph Muscat has written to US President-Elect Barack Obama to congratulate him on his victory.

"I am sure that with your election to the Presidency of the United States, the excellent relations existing between our two countries and our people will be further developed to strengthen the economic, social and cultural ties between our two nations," Dr Muscat wrote.

"On a political and, I must say, a personal level, your election makes historical news not only in your country but also for all of us, across the world, who believe in a multilateral approach to international issues in which Europe and the United States work in closer partnership and collaboration."

Dr Muscat told Senator Obama that his election was welcome news for all those who shared their belief that environment and climate change were not just trendy topics for discussion but crucial issues of great importance for the well being of mankind.

"Your election is welcome news for all those who believe that everyone, irrespective of social or economic background, should have the opportunity to succeed in one's life.

"Your election as President of the United States is indeed welcome news for all those, especially young women and men, who believe and hope in a change to a better way of doing things; a way that goes beyond outdated partisan and divisive politics," Dr Muscat said.