The Government of Japan appreciates that the election was conducted on November 17 (Thu) in a largely peaceful manner, although there were very low voter turnouts in some parts of the North-East region and some reported cases of violation of election laws.

The Government of Japan expresses its heartfelt congratulations to Mr. Mahinda Rajapakse, on his election as the next President of Sri Lanka, and hopes that existing friendly relations between Sri Lanka and Japan will be further strengthened under the new President.The Government of Japan strongly hopes that under the leadership of the new President, peace process will be reinvigorated with a view to achieving the negotiated settlement of the conflict. The Government of Japan remains committed to support peace and development in the country.

Source: www.infojapan.org/announce