DHAKA: President Abdul Hamid and Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina Friday congratulated Sri Lanka's new President Maithripala Sirisena and hoped further widened and deepened bilateral ties between the two neighbours.

In his message to his counterpart, Hamid said, “I am convinced that under your leadership, the people of Sri Lanka will experience greater peace, progress and prosperity in the coming days.”

“I have firm belief that bilateral relations between our two friendly countries would be further widened and deepened during your Presidency,” the president said.

He also said, “Please accept, Excellency, my very best wishes for your success in your high office and for your good health, happiness and personal well being.”

PM Sheikh Hasina, in her message, also congratulated the people of Sri Lanka for peacefully and judiciously exercising their democratic right to elect their leader

“The choice they have made is a reflection of their respect for the ethos of democracy, good governance and rule of law”, she added.

 I wish you all success in achieving your vision for a new era of reform and stability in Sri Lanka, she also said. 

In a letter to Sirisena, Hasina said, “Bangladesh deeply values its warm, friendly relations with Sri Lanka that have been developed and consolidated over the years through sustained interactions at the bilateral, regional and international fora. I look forward to working closely with you in elevating our multifarious relations to a newer height in the years ahead. “

The PM also recalled their meeting in April 2013 during his visit to Bangladesh. 

The premier also extended a warm invitation to him to visit Bangladesh at his convenience.

President Mahinda Rajapaksa Friday conceded defeat in Sri Lanka's tightest-ever presidential race, with cumulative results showing opposition candidate Sirisena ahead.

With final result yet to be declared, Sirisena is expected to be declared winner by around 4,00,000 votes.

BDST: 1009 HRS, JAN 10, 2015