Prime Minister John Howard, one of the strongest allies of the United States in the war in Iraq has won reelection in the Australian elections, the first time since the 1960s that an incumbant government has increased its parliamentary majority in two consecutive elections. Howard’s party won with 52.7% of the vote for his ruling coalition.
Mr Howard says Australia “stands on the threshold of a new era of great achievement”.
“This is a proud nation, a confident nation, a cohesive nation, a united nation, a nation that can achieve anything if it sets its mind to it,” he said.
He described Australia as a beacon of hope and tolerance all around the world.
“The rest of the world sees us as a strong, successful nation and tonight the Australian people, by their decision, have declared themselves confident about their future,” he said.
“We have a strong economy, we are a nation that is respected around the world because we are prepared to stand up for what we believe in,” he said.
Congratulations to Prime Minister Howard.
