EU President Confident of German Support for Europe after Merkel Win

European Union president Herman Van Rompuy on Sunday congratulated German Chancellor Angela Merkel on her election win and expressed confidence that Germany would remain committed to a "prosperous Europe."

"I am confident that Germany and its new government will continue its commitment and contribution to the construction of a peaceful and prosperous Europe at the service of all its citizens," he said in a statement, adding: "I look forward to continuing the close cooperation with Angela Merkel."

Meanwhile, French President Francois Hollande congratulated Merkel on her election victory, the presidency said.

In a phone call shortly after the first poll estimates were released, both leaders "expressed their willingness... to continue their close cooperation to meet the challenges of the European project," a statement said.