President of India Congratulates New U.s. President on His Assumption of Office

The President of India, Smt. Pratibha Devisingh Patil has congratulated the new President of the United States, Mr. Barack Obama on his assumption of office.

In her message, Smt. Patil has said, " It is with great pleasure that I convey to you warm congratulations as you assume office of the President of the United States of America.

I am confident that under your leadership the India-US partnership will be further strengthened and that we shall continue to work together for the many commonalities in our vision for our peoples and for international peace and stability.

We look forward to receiving you and Mrs. Michelle Obama in India.

As you lead your country into a new era, my good wishes and those of the Government and the people of India are with you."

The release issued at 1630 hrs