In a twitter message he said; "As a close friend and neighbour, reaffirmed India's continued solidarity and support for Sri Lanka's peace, development and prosperity."

Japan also welcomed the peaceful and successful holding of the presidential election on Thursday and expressed its congratulations for the election of Maithripala Sirisena as the next President of Sri Lanka. Japan also commended President Rajapaksa for his decision to transfer power in a smooth and peaceful manner respecting the will of the people of Sri Lanka, states a release issued by Japan's Foreign Affairs minister.

Japan hopes that, under the leadership of President-elect Sirisena, all parties concerned in Sri Lanka will work together to further promote national reconciliation, democracy and economic development.

Japan will continue to support Sri Lanka's efforts in these areas and further develop our cooperative relationship.

The US looks forward to working with Sri Lankan president-elect Maithripala Sirisena, Secretary of State John Kerry said, as he commended outgoing President Mahinda Rajapaksa for accepting the election results.