Dublin, Nov 5, SPA -- Irish Prime Minister Brian Cowen on Wednesdaycongratulated Senator Barack Obama on being elected president of theUnited States, saying Obama's election was "a day of hope for theworld", reported dpa. "Barack Obama's remarkable personal story - allied to hiseloquence and his huge political talents - sends a powerful messageof hope to America's friends across the world." "There is a palpable sense of history with the election of thefirst African-American president. "On this day, we are all reminded of those who struggled for civilrights in America for so many years, as well as all of those who workfor justice and peace around the world today." Cowen also praised the defeated Republican candidate, who hasScots-Irish heritage, saying "for his immense contribution toAmerican life, great credit is due to Senator John McCain, anotherlong-standing and true friend of Ireland." dpa wjh ncs --SPA www.spa.gov.sa/604677