President Jacob Zuma on Tuesday congratulated newly elected Tunisian President Beji Caid Essebsi, the department of international relations said.

“The president of the Republic of South Africa… Jacob Zuma wishes to congratulate the president-elect of the Republic of Tunisia, Mr Beji Caid Essebsi on his victory following the presidential runoff elections held in Tunisia on 21 December 2014,” said Clayson Monyela in a statement.

Zuma also congratulated Tunisians for their “peaceful demeanour” during the elections.

“To this end, the South African government wishes for continued peace, stability and prosperity for the sisterly people of Tunisia.”

Zuma was confident relations between the two countries would strengthen during the new president’s term, he said. SAPA