Statement by the Press Secretary on New Australian Prime Minister Gillard

President Obama offers his congratulations to Julia Gillard on her assumption of the position of Prime Minister of Australia and on the historic step of becoming Australia’s first female prime minister.  The United States and Australia enjoy a special and productive relationship and alliance that will continue to prosper under her leadership.  The President looks forward to working with Prime Minister Gillard across the broad range of issues on which the United States and Australia currently enjoy strong and deep cooperation and looks forward to speaking with her soon.  The President also wishes to extend his thanks and best wishes to former Prime Minister Kevin Rudd, who remains a great friend of America.