Date:21/11/2005 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2005/11/21/stories/2005112111570100.htm

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Manmohan invites Rajapakse to visit India

Special Correspondent

New Delhi: Prime Minister Manmohan Singh telephoned the newly elected Sri Lankan President, Mahinda Rajapakse, to congratulate him on his victory and invite him to visit India, official sources said on Sunday.

In a separate message, President A.P.J. Abdul Kalam also congratulated Mr. Rajapakse on his assumption of office. Mr. Kalam said Sri Lanka and India enjoyed excellent bilateral relations in all spheres. "I am sure that under your able leadership, our two countries will be able to cement and strengthen it further," he added.