Big responsibilities; hard work, cooperation required, says Hamid

New Delhi, Aug 10 (UNI) Exuding confidence and joy, Vice President elect Mohammad Hamid Ansari today said he would try to the best of his ability to do his job as Vice president and as Rajya Sabha Chairman.

''Both these responsibilities are very big and I would have to work hard,'' he said.

He sought the cooperation of Members of the House in conducting its affairs.

Flanked by Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi who had come to 11 South Avenue to congartulate him on his victory today, Dr Ansari said his victory was the result of excellent team work.

''I thank those who have voted for me and who have worked for my victory. I would try my best to come up to their expectations,'' he said speaking to the media after he was presented the results of today's elections by Minister for Parliamentary Affairs Priya Ranjan Dasmunsi.

When asked how he was feeling about his job as Chairperson of Rajya Sabha, he said he was confident but at the same time felt that he would have to learn a lot.

Asked whether he felt any kind of handicap due to his non-political background, he said he had been a diplomat for over 40 years which was purely a political experience.

As far as proceedings of the Upper House were concerned, everything was conducted according to rules which were very elaborate.

Moreover, he said he would try his best to seek the cooperation of the Members without which the House could not be run smoothly.

Replying to a question, he said he had full faith in the Parliamentary system.

''The Parliamentary democracy was thriving in the country which one can easily see if one takes a look around the world,'' he added.

Earlier, Mr Dasmunsi told mediapersons that Dr Ansari would preside over the House on August 13.

Prominent among those who had come to congratulate Dr Ansari were Home Minister Shivraj Patil and Defence Minister Pranab Kumar Mukherjee. Besides, other Members of the Council of Minister and a large number of leaders of other political parties, MPs and friends also visited 11 South Avenue to extend their greetings to him and his family.

Dr Ansari will take his oath of office tomorrow, Mr Dasmunsi said.

UNI