President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih conveyed a message of congratulations to the new Prime Minister of Japan, Yoshihide Suga, following his election on September 16.
"On behalf of the government and the people of the Maldives, and on my own behalf, I have the honour to extend to your excellency, my sincere good wishes and congratulations on your election as the Prime Minister of Japan", read President Solih's message.
The president went on to highlight the longstanding bilateral ties between the two nations as well as Japan's "innumerable" contribution to Maldives development.
"I look forward to working closely with your excellency in further expanding the enduring ties of friendship and cooperation between the Maldives and Japan, for the mutual benefit of our people".
Expressing confidence in Suga's ability to guide Japan to new heights of development and prosperity, President Solih concluded his message with wishes for the new premier's good health and continued progress for the people of Japan.
The 71-year-old Suga achieved a clear electoral victory, claiming 314 votes of 462 valid ballots cast in the lower house of the Japanese parliament.
Former Chief Cabinet Secretary Suga was elected after Shinzo Abe, Japan's longest serving premier to date, announced his resignation in late August over health complications.
Suga has stated that his priorities after assuming office will include controlling the spread of COVID-19 and kickstarting Japan's economy, and has promised to continue Abe's key policy programmes.
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