Norway’s Prime Minister, Mr. Kjell Magne Bondevik, Monday afternoon sent the following message to Kenya’s new president, Mr. Mwai Kibaki:

“Dear President Mwai Kibaki,
It is my pleasure to congratulate you as the new president of Kenya after the election victory of the National Rainbow Coalition.

I have been following the elections closely and I am pleased to hear that they have been carried out in a transparent and orderly manner. The peaceful transfer of power bodes well for the future of Kenya and constitutes a clear signal to the rest of Africa as well.

I am pleased to note your declared emphasis on such important issues as the fight against corruption and good governance. I am convinced that your efforts will lead to positive results, and I hope that our two countries can continue a fruitful dialogue and cooperation, not least on regional matters, where your country is playing an important and constructive role.

With my best wishes for the New Year, I remain,

Yours sincerely,
Kjell Magne Bondevik”.