Bush props India as a 'Global Power'

New Delhi, Mar 3 (UNI) Terming India and the US as ''natural allies'', US President George W Bush today said the two countries would together take the ''light of freedom to the darkest corner on the earth'' and expressed the two countries' determination to jointly combat terrorism.

Wrapping up his three-day landmark visit to India with an address at the historic 'Purana Qila' here, the US leader described India as ''a global power'' which has a historic duty to support democracy around the world.

''Now the world needs India's leadership,'' Mr Bush said addressing prominent Indians from all walks of life.

Referring to Pakistan, he said there was a time when Washington's relationship with Islamabad was a source of concern to New Delhi.

However, times have changed.

''A closer relationship between Pakistan and the US is good for India and a closer relationship between India and the US is good for Pakistan,'' he said amid thunderous applause.

He said during his visit to Pakistan, he would discuss with President Pervez Musharraf the vital contribution of his country in the war against terror.

A prosperous democratic Pakistan could be be a force of moderation in the Arab world and a peaceful neighbour for India, he added.

MORE UNI AT/SKS/FZ RP BS1929