United States President Barack Obama has congratulated Kevin Rudd on his return as prime minister, but has also dialled Julia Gillard’s number.

Calling from the presidential aircraft – Air Force One – during a visit to Africa, the US leader phoned Rudd and his predecessor on Monday, according to a statement issued by the White House.

Obama congratulated Rudd and highlighted the importance of maintaining strong relations between the US and Australia.

The statement said Obama made a subsequent call to Gillard.

“President Obama thanked her for her warm friendship and close partnership in deepening cooperation between the United States and Australia, and he wished her well in her future endeavours,” the statement said.