Japan welcomed the peaceful and successful holding of the presidential election on Thursday and expressed its congratulations for the election of Maithripala Sirisena as the next President of Sri Lanka.

Issuing a statement  from the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Japan, Japan also commended former President Rajapaksa for his decision to transfer power in a smooth and peaceful manner respecting the will of the people of Sri Lanka.

Japan hopes that, under the leadership of President Maithripala Sirisena, all parties concerned in Sri Lanka will work together to further promote national reconciliation, democracy and economic development.

Japan will continue to support Sri Lanka's efforts in these areas and further develop our cooperative relationship.