U.S. President Barack Obama has telephoned his congratulations to Japanese Prime Minister-elect Yoshihiko Noda.

The White House says they talked about the critical importance of the U.S.-Japanese friendship and alliance to peace and stability in the Pacific. They also pledged to work closely to reenergize the global economy.

Mr. Noda said Wednesday he wants to meet with Mr. Obama soon. Japanese officials say they will try to set up such a meeting during the United Nations General Assembly later this month.

Japan's parliament elected Mr. Noda Tuesday. He replaces Naoto Kan, who resigned last week because of deep public disapproval of his handling of the March earthquake and the crisis at the Fukushima nuclear power plant.