Obama
US President Barack Obama with first lady Michelle Obama REUTERS/Jonathan Ernst

Political leaders around the world took time off to celebrate the New Year 2016, wishing their followers on social media. While some kept it simple and joyful, some reminded us of some of the horrible attacks on humanity in 2015 and urged strength to fight them.

IB Times UK takes a look at some of the wishes from prominent leasers around the world.

US President Barack Obama

President Obama struck a perfect balance tweeting an image of himself and his wife, besides pledging to make a contribution to a charitable cause.

The Pope

While the Pope did not have a specific new year message to share, he did did share some insightful thought on New Year's Eve.

French President Francois Hollande

As the year ended President Hollande reminded us of the horrific Paris attacks. In a tweet, he said: "2015 was a year of suffering and resistance, then make 2016 a year of courage and hope. I address to you my best wishes."

Democratic presidential candidate Hillary Clinton

Hillary Clinton seemed to enjoy the last moments of 2015 with none other than husband Bill Clinton. She posted a picture of themselves at New York's Times Square.

Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump

Donald Trump, known for his grandeur and flamboyance, kept spirits high at a New Year Eve party attended by his friends and family.

British Prime Minister David Cameron

With a difficult year behind him and perhaps a more challenging 2016 ahead, Cameroon decided to keep his greetings short and sweet.

Labour Party leader Jeremy Corbyn

Jeremy Corbyn posted a special video message for the new year, talking about helping the needy like those in the recent floods. He also talked about his political achievements and the challenges ahead for the Labour Party in 2016.

Scotland's First Minister Nicola Sturgeon

The Scottish leader Nicola Sturgeon wished everyone a happy 2016 and also posted this adorable selfie with her niece.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi kept his message traditional and formal wishing good health and prosperity to all.

Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe

Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe posted this image with his wife Akie Abe while greeting everyone on New Year. He also posted a detailed message in Japanese: "A happy new year...Year fruitful, this year ask citizens for greater understanding and support...many wonderful and heartfelt best wishes."

Spanish Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy

Spanish Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy looked farther ahead than just the new year. In his tweet he said: "I wish all Spaniards happy overnight and a prosperous 2016... 2017 and 2018 and 2019."

Isralei Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu

Benjamin Netanyahu wished his people and friends of Israel a happy and prosperous new year with a traditional message.

Russian Prime Minister Dimitry Medvedev

Dimitry Medvedev posted this photo of himself while wishing everyone on the New Year.

New Zealand Prime Minister John Key

John Key kept his message to the minimum.

Mexican President Enrique Pena Nieto

Mexican President Enrique Pena Nieto kept his message formal and short: " Welcome 2016! Happy new year to all."

Malaysian Prime Minister Najib Razak

Malaysian Prime Minister Najib Razak, like many others, decided to keep it simple.

Queen Rania of Jordan

Jordan's Queen Rania urged people to begin the year with gratitude and optimism.