After months running neck and neck, Democratic Senator Barack Obama won the race against his Republican rival John McCain, making history by becoming the first black American President. Ariadne Massa finds out that the Maltese are looking forward to renewed stronger relations between the US and Europe, which have somewhat soured since the Iraq invasion in 2003.

Joseph Zammit McKeon, 52, of Lija

News of Barack Obama's election is fantastic - it's a breath of fresh air. This was not a slogan victory; it was an election contested between two contestants with statesmen qualities. The speech both of them made after the results were announced showed maturity and admirable qualities. For us Europeans, Senator Obama's election is a plus in terms of our relations with the US.

The fact that an African-American contested the election was a big issue during the campaign but his victory shows how American democracy has developed after years of discrimination.

Ian Mercieca Bons, 31, of Naxxar

Barack Obama's critics may have used his colour against him, and race was a very big issue in the run-up to the election, but he always spoke about a united America. For me, race was never an issue but the fact that Americans voted for the first black President in the White House shows a progressive maturity that puts to rest decades of prejudice.

I'm looking forward to closer relations between Europe and the US. From what I can gather, Senator Obama is more diplomatic, which is very welcome.

Carmelo Vassallo, 59, of Sliema

Barack Obama's election is most definitely a welcome change. He's a young kid and, if nothing else, his presence in the White House will wipe the slate clean of the baggage George W. Bush left behind. In terms of pressing issues, such as the Middle East and US relations with Europe, this is a wonderful moment.

I find it quite ironic that Senator Obama's middle name is Hussein. Also, electing the first black President reflects well on the American public.

The way he funded and ran the election campaign was very novel and welcome.

Joe Galea, 71, of Sta Lucija

I am happy to see a new face and a change in the White House.

I also welcome Barack Obama's different ideas on the war in Iraq and Afghanistan.

For those of us who remember the decades of history and prejudice, and how the blacks suffered, the news that an African-American won is unbelievable.

It is a sign of justice to see Senator Obama, his wife, and two children, becoming America's first family.

Daniela Cassar, 23, of Sliema

I'm really happy to see that Barack Obama has been voted into power. After so many years of disaster, another Republican in office would have been a blow.

Plus, I couldn't relate to (Republican Vice-Presidential candidate) Sarah Palin; I just couldn't take her.

This is a historic moment for the Americans to elect a black President when you consider the bigotry generations of African Americans were subjected to until recently.