Jerusalem  - Israeli caretaker Prime Minister Ehud Olmert congratulated president-elect Barack Obama Wednesday on his "historic victory," saying the "special" relationship between Washington and Israel would not only continue but even strengthen during his time in office.

"America proved once again that it is indeed the greatest democracy, which presents an example to all other democracies in the world. President-elect Obama proved his abilities and leadership to the entire world," Olmert said in a statement from his office.

"I have no doubt that the special relationship that exists between the two countries will continue and strengthen in the period of the Obama administration." (dpa)