Singapore leaders congratulate Jokowi, Kalla on election victory

 Indonesian presidential candidate Joko Widodo (left) waves with his running mate Jusuf Kalla (right) after delivering his victory address aboard a traditional commercial boat in Jakarta's port district of Sunda Kelapa on July 22, 2014 as the Ge
 Indonesian presidential candidate Joko Widodo (left) waves with his running mate Jusuf Kalla (right) after delivering his victory address aboard a traditional commercial boat in Jakarta's port district of Sunda Kelapa on July 22, 2014 as the General Elections Commission declared Widodo the winner of the presidential elections. Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong has congratulated Mr Joko Widodo on his presidential win, calling the July elections "a hard-fought campaign". -- PHOTO: AFP

SINGAPORE Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong has congratulated Mr Joko Widodo on his presidential win, calling the July elections "a hard-fought campaign".

In a letter to the president-elect, Mr Lee wrote: "It was a hard-fought campaign but you won Indonesians over with your vision, your focus on their concerns and aspirations, and your natural identification with ordinary citizens.

"Your victory reflects the confidence and hope that the Indonesian people have in your leadership. I am confident that Indonesia will thrive under your able leadership."

Mr Lee, who also made a phone call to Mr Joko this morning, extended an invitation to the Indonesian leader "to visit Singapore at the earliest opportunity".

In his congratulatory note, Singapore President Tony Tan Keng Yam said: "Indonesians have placed their trust in your people-oriented vision to improve their lives and take Indonesia to new heights."

Mr Tan also expressed confidence that "Indonesia will continue to progress and prosper in the coming years" as strong ties with Singapore "continue to flourish".

Singapore Deputy Prime Minister Teo Chee Hean similarly made a call to Indonesian Vice-President-elect Jusuf Kalla to congratulate him on his victory.

Join ST's Telegram channel and get the latest breaking news delivered to you.