Europe congratulates Sánchez: Messages from Germany, France and Portugal

German Chancellor Angela Merkel (pictured) says she hopes that following the change in government in Spai, the two countries will 'maintain their close and trusting cooperation' and also the friendship between two of the European Union's largest and most powerful members.

Spokesman for the German government, Steffen Seibert – pictured right next to Frau Merkel - wished outgoing president Mariano Rajoy all the best and thanked him for his 'cooperation' and the 'reforms' he implemented which 'have returned Spain to growth'.

Seibert refused to give any views on the no-confidence vote against Rajoy which has put Sánchez in the hotseat: “We don't comment on in-house democratic processes that take place in our allied countries,” he said.

Mayoress of Paris Anne Hidalgo – who is of Andalucía origin, having been born in San Fernando (Cádiz province) – said Sánchez was 'the leader Spain needs today' and that the country's return to socialism gave her a 'very strong and concrete' positive feeling for its future.

“This is good news, not only for Spain, but also for Europe and for the social democrats – [Pedro Sánchez] is an educated man, rational, reasonable and I believe he is the leader Spain needs.

Mme Hidalgo believes Sánchez is 'very authentic, very sincere' in his 'political commitment', and 'very clear in his objectives and balanced in his economic and social plan' for Spain.

Sánchez is 'a social democrat, ecologist and feminist' like herself, Mme Hidalgo concludes.

Leader of the French socialist party Olivier Fauré tweeted: “Bravo, esteemed Pedro Sánchez Castejón, new president of the Spanish government! All my best wishes for success in this formidable challenge, for Spain, for Europe and for the Left.”

Portugal's socialist prime minister António Costa thanked Sánchez for the 'hand of friendship' he extended to Spain's neighbouring country and wished him 'every success', and for the relationship between Portugal and Spain to 'continue to improve'.

Costa knows about the journey Sánchez is embarking on: the Portuguese leader governs in minority with the Parliamentary support of the radical left.

The PM said he had not had a chance to speak to Rajoy, but wished to thank him for being 'a very important partner' and for the 'friendship he has always shown Portugal'.

Spanish Parliamentary spokeswoman Ana Pastor (PP) has now officially communicated Sánchez's leadership to King Felipe VI at their meeting at the Zarzuela Palace, and the monarch has now signed the new presidential nomination, giving the 'Royal assent' to his appointment.