World leaders herald arrival of the little prince

World leaders joined in the welcome of the new royal baby as his arrival continued to spark a global tidal wave of interest.

US president Barack Obama and wife Michelle sent their congratulations to the duke and duchess of Cambridge last night, saying: “We wish them all the happiness and blessings parenthood brings.

“The child enters the world at a time of promise and opportunity for our two nations. Given the special relationship between us, the American people are pleased to join with the people of the United Kingdom as they celebrate the birth of the young prince.”

Australian prime minister Kevin Rudd wished the “royal bub” all the best on behalf of all Australians.

“This is a day of great joy,” he said. “When a new bub comes into the world, any old day, any part of the world, it is frankly a time for rejoicing.

“So on behalf of all Australians we wish the family all the best at this wonderful time of celebration.”

Stephen Harper, prime minister of Canada — where William and Kate carried out their first royal tour together — said Canadians were “delighted” to learn of the birth of their son and sent “heartfelt congratulations”.

“The arrival of the newest member of the royal family, a future sovereign of Canada, is a highly anticipated moment for Canadians given the special and warm relationship that we share with our royal family.

“This new beginning reminds us of the remarkable and enduring relationship our country has enjoyed with generations of the royal family.

“Laureen and I send our best wishes of health and happiness to the new parents as they embark on this exciting chapter in their lives.”

President and chief executive of the Royal Canadian Mint Ian Bennett said: “The mint has a proud tradition of celebrating milestones of Canada’s royal family and I am pleased to announce that we will issue special commemorative coins to mark this very special and historic occasion.”

New Zealand’s prime minister John Key said the nation’s official gift to the royal couple is a hand- spun, hand-knitted fine lace shawl, similar to the one given when Prince William was born. There will be a 21-gun salute fired from Point Jerningham, Wellington, today.

“This is wonderful news for Prince William and Catherine,” Mr Key said.

“New Zealanders remember with fondness the visit of Prince William when he was just a toddler, playing on the lawn of government house with a Buzzy Bee. It would be a great pleasure to welcome Prince William’s son to New Zealand as well.

“On behalf of the people of New Zealand, I wish Prince William, Catherine, and the royal family all the very best.”