ISLAMABAD: Indian Prime Minister, Manmohan Singh, in a message on Sunday termed the election of Asif Ali Zardari as President of Pakistan as an opportunity for the neighboring countries to bring a positive change in bilateral relations.

Chief of Indian Congress party, Sonia Gandhi also congratulated Asif Zardari on the phone.

“The formation of new government in Pakistan has created new opportunities for both the countries to work jointly towards achieving the goals of peace, development and prosperity of the region,” Manmohan Singh said.

He said it is his political commitment to work with Asif Ali Zardari for making the most of the new opportunities and bringing positive improvement in bilateral ties.

“You will find India as your friend,” Manmohan told Zardari in his message.