President, FM fete new Japanese PM

President Mahinda Rajapaksa yesterday congratulated Taro Aso on being elected the Prime Minister of Japan.

The President in a message said: "It is with great pleasure that I extend to you my warmest congratulations on your election as the Prime Minister of Japan.

Your election to this high office is a clear manifestation of the confidence and trust that members of the LDP and the people of Japan have placed in your able leadership to lead the Japanese nation for further prosperity and progress.

I am confident that the strong bonds of friendship and cooperation that Sri Lanka and Japan have enjoyed for long years will continue to flourish during your premiership. I look forward to a fruitful and sustained dialogue with a view to further consolidating the relations between our two countries.

Please accept, Excellency, the assurances of my highest consideration and my best wishes for your good health and personal wellbeing."

Foreign Minister Rohitha Bogollagama said: "I am extremely pleased to learn of your appointment as the Prime Minister of Japan and I wish to convey my warmest congratulations on your assumption of this high office.

I recall with gratitude our interactions, contributing towards further strengthening of our relations, both officially and personally, during your tenure as the Foreign Minister.

I am confident that as the Prime Minister of Japan, you would extend your invaluable patronage for further progress in relations between our two countries, both bilateral and in multilateral.

Please accept, Your Excellency, the assurances of my highest consideration."