Obama seeks strong ties with Israel
"We look forward to continued strong ties, to the benefit of both our nations, under Mr. Rivlin's presidency," Xinhua quoted Obama as saying in a statement, which added that the two countries have developed a " unique" relationship over more than six decades with the United States keeping its "unshakable" commitment to Israel's security.
Rivlin, a 75-year-old former parliament speaker, won the presidency Tuesday. He will succeed Shimon Peres whose seven- year term ends next month.
Obama praised Peres for his "remarkable legacy of courage, conviction and compassion," saying "He has dedicated his extraordinary life to the cause of peace, and I look forward to welcoming him in Washington later this month where he will receive the Congressional Gold Medal."
IANS