1. The Government of the Republic of Korea welcomes the peaceful and democratic elections held on 8 January with the active participation of the people of Sri Lanka. The ROK government notes that the election marks an important milestone in the development of democracy in Sri Lanka.

2. In addition, the Government of the Republic of Korea conveys its congratulations to candidate Maithripala Sirisena on his election as the next President of Sri Lanka.

3. The Government of the Republic of Korea hopes that the new government of Sri Lanka will achieve continuous national development based on the support of the people of Sri Lanka expressed through the elections. The ROK government will closely cooperate with the new government of Sri Lanka for the further development of the friendship between the two countries. 

                               Spokesperson and Deputy Minister for Public Relations of MOFA

* unofficial translation