Japanese Prime Minister Taro Aso on Wednesday extended his "heartfelt congratulations" to Barack Obama on his election as president of the United States.

"As the world confronts a multitude of serious challenges, I believe the United States will continue to make significant advancements under the able leadership of President-elect Obama," said the premier in a statement.

"Working together with President-elect Obama, I will strive to further strengthen the Japan-U.S. alliance and to resole various challenges the international community faces when addressing issues such as the international economy, terrorism and the environment," Aso added.

(Xinhua News Agency November 5, 2008)