President congratulates Asif Ali Zardari

New Delhi, Sep 9 (UNI) President Pratibha Patil today congratulated Pakistan President Asif Ali Zardari on assuming office and expressed India's commitment to working closely with him to further develop relations between the two countries.

In her message, the President described his (Mr Zardari's) election as a ''milestone in Pakistan's history'' symbolising the durability and strength of democratic forces in that country.

She said the resurgence of these (democratic) forces was in the interests of Pakistan and the entire region.

''You face immense challenges and we are committed to working closely with you to further develop bilateral this between our two countries for the mutual benefit of our people and our region,'' Ms Patil said.

UNI RB SP AS2019