Video: Global messages for Obama

Al Jazeera
http://english.aljazeera.net/news/americas/2009/01/2009115194215767994.html

As part of Al Jazeera's coverage of Barack Obama's inauguration as president of the United States, we asked people from across the world what their message would be to the new president, and what they think his first priority in the White House.
Here are some of the people we spoke to, from the Kenya to Malaysia, and their thoughts on the historic occasion.

Ramallah, Palestinian territories
Many Palestinians remain doubtful that Obama can bring about true change in the Middle East.
They point to all US presidents' traditional support for Israel, particularly during the recent Israeli offensive in Gaza.
Some say the remain "realistic", as opposed to "optimistic" about what Obama can really achieve.
And all are clear that they want the new US president to support the Palestinians in their cause.
Voices on Obama - Palestinian territories
www.youtube.com/watch?v=jrr9nWkmqoY

Rafah border, Egypt/Gaza
For those on the Rafah border between Israel and Gaza, there are feelings of relief that George Bush, the US president, is no longer in office.
There are also hopes that Obama will put pressure on Israel to finally bring about a Palestinian state.
Others express hope that his time in office will bring more global stability.
Obama's term in office comes at a time when the Middle East conflict has once again been centre stage in global politics.
Voices on Obama - Rafah border
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IfdHGZ41_-g

Jerusalem
Israel has watched the US election intently for months, given the close relationship between the two countries and the recent war on Gaza.
For many in Israel, both Israeli and Palestinian, views are mixed on whether Obama can achieve anything with regards to the Middle East conflict.
Some remain pessimistic that Obama will be able to make any lasting peace process.
However, others hope he will have a more "careful" foreign policy than his Republican predecessor, George Bush.
Voices on Obama - Israel
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9S8k2n_kUDQ