Jonathan hails Abbot for winning Australian polls

President Goodluck Jonathan has congratulated Mr. Tony Abbot of Australia's Liberal National Coalition on his victory in country's elections.

Special Adviser to the president on media and publicity, Dr. Reuben Abati noted in a statement on Saturday said “As Mr. Abbot and the Liberal Coalition return to power in Australia for the first time in six years, President Jonathan hopes that they will maintain and build on the cordial and friendly relations developed between Nigeria, other African nations and Australia under  the outgoing Labour government.”

The statement reads in part: “President Jonathan and the Federal Government of Nigeria look forward  to working with Mr Abbot and his incoming administration to fully  actualise the plans for increased trade and economic cooperation  between Nigeria and Australia which were initiated during the  President's visit to Australia in 2011.

“President Jonathan also trusts that with Mr. Abbot at the helm of the Australian Government, Nigeria and Australia will continue to work harmoniously  on global issues such as the war against terrorism, climate change, international trade and migration.  He wishes Mr. Abbot a very successful tenure.”