US Senator describes India as shining example of democracy

Describing India-US relationship as ''extremely important'', an American Senator has called India a shining example of democracy in the world.

In a meeting with Indian Ambassador to the US Nirupama Rao at the Capitol Hill, Senator Marco Rubio of Florida said development of India is in the interest of the US.

"He called India a shining example of democracy in its region and the world, and noted that India was one of the countries that people in America often cited to describe the new world," Indian Embassy spokesman Virander Paul said in a statement here.

The discussions mainly focused on India-US relations, which Rubio described as an "extremely important" relationship based on shared values and synergies.

During the meeting, Rao mentioned that India's key priority is to ensure inclusive development and deliver the fruits of economic growth to all its people.

In fulfilling these goals, India also attached great importance to relations with the United States which was an indispensable partner, she said.

The Senator and the Ambassador also discussed regional situation in South Asia and East Asia.

They agreed that the emergence of an open, balanced and inclusive architecture in the Asia-Pacific region was in the interest of both India and the US.

Rubio welcomed India's positive contribution to Afghanistan’s reconstruction and described a strong US-India partnership as an important factor for Afghanistan’s peace and prosperity.

The discussions also briefly touched upon India's relations with Latin America, the statement said.