Manmohan Singh congratulates Zardari on his election as Pakistan President

New Delhi, Sept 7 : Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh has congratulated Asif Ali Zardari on his election as President of Pakistan.

He said in his message, as you assume this high office, I convey to you the desire of the Government and people of India to build close ties of friendship and partnership between our countries that respond to the aspirations of our two peoples.

The Prime Minister further added that the ushering in of democracy in Pakistan opens new opportunities for us to work together to bring the fruits of peace, prosperity and development to our region by developing the close and cooperative ties that should be normal between two neighbours.

"We have the political will to work with you to seize these opportunities and transform our relations. In your new office, you will find a friend in India," he added.

Zardari secured 281 of the 426 parliamentary votes and won a thumping majority in three of the four provincial assemblies.

The United States was among the first countries to congratulate Zardari.

Foreign and domestic leaders have hailed the election of Pakistan People's Party (PPP) co-Chairman Asif Ali Zardari, as the president of Pakistan.

ANI