Sri Lanka and Canada enjoy deep and lasting historical ties. We appreciate the firm position your Government has taken in helping Sri Lanka to defeat terrorism, and the support that the government has given my country in the post-conflict phase. This includes continued commitment against residual forces of terror, and much valued assistance for economic and social progress, as well as reconstruction and reconciliation, said President Mahinda Rajapaksa.

"The clear majority you have now obtained in Parliament through your dynamic leadership will provide strong and stable direction to Canada in facing the challenges ahead", said President Rajapaksa in a message of congratulation to the newly elected Canadian Prime Minister Stephen Harper.

Here is the full text of the message:

04th May 2011

The Rt. Hon. Stephen Harper
Prime Minister of Canada

Excellency

It gives me great pleasure to convey to you on behalf of the people and the Government of Sri Lanka, and my own behalf, best wishes and sincere felicitations on the success of the Conservative Party of Canada under your leadership, ensuring your continuance in the Office of the Prime Minister of Canada.

I am confident that the clear majority you have now obtained in Parliament through your dynamic leadership will provide strong and stable direction to Canada in facing the challenges ahead.

Sri Lanka and Canada enjoy deep and lasting historical ties. We appreciate the firm position your Government has taken in helping Sri Lanka to defeat terrorism, and the support that the government has given my country in the post-conflict phase. This includes continued commitment against residual forces of terror, and much valued assistance for economic and social progress, as well as reconstruction and reconciliation.

With your new strength in Parliament, I look forward to working closely with you to further strengthen the relationship and friendship between our two countries.

Please accept, Excellency, the assurance of my highest consideration.

Mahinda Rajapaksa
President D
Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka