Jacinda Ardern congratulates Joe Biden on the electoral victory in the United States | 1 NEWS

New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern has shared a message of congratulations to the President-elect of the United States, Joe Biden, on his victory over Donald Trump.

Biden was declared victorious after successfully changing the state of Pennsylvania, his hometown, this morning, giving him enough electoral seats to exceed the required 270.

Ardern says he hopes to strengthen ties between the two nations in the coming years.

“There are many challenges facing the international community at this time, Joe Biden’s message of unity positions us well to meet those challenges.”

Noting Biden’s previous visits to New Zealand in 2016, Jacinda Ardern says the victory would allow the two countries to closely address prominent issues such as Covid-19 and climate change.

“New Zealand will continue to work closely with the United States on the issues that matter to us both, including prosperity, security and sustainability in the Indo-Pacific and Pacific Islands regions.”

Ardern also took a moment to share his thoughts on Trump’s departure, highlighting the work both nations have done together, particularly on issues related to the Pacific.

Meanwhile, Foreign Minister Nanaia Mahuta tweeted a smiley face emoji before a more formal statement, congratulating Biden and Harris on their “historic choice.”

Harris will be the first woman, and the first person of color, to become vice president of the United States.