The 24-year-old 'Twilight' star wore a gorgeous strapless dress when she came up onstage to receive the trophy, reported Ace Showbiz.
Stewart is the first American actress in thirty years who was nominated, and subsequently won. Previously, Julia Migenes was nominated for her performance in 'Carmen'. The last American actor to win, meanwhile, is Adrien Brody for 2002's 'The Pianist'.
'Timbuktu' was a big winner at the Friday, February 20 show. The film was awarded with best picture, best director for Abderrahmane Sissako and best original screenplay among others. Best actress trophy was handed to Adele Haenel ('Les Combattants'), while Pierre Niney ('Yves Saint Laurent') took home best actor gong. 'Hippocrate' star Reda Kateb won best supporting actor.