15 May 2004	Saturday	24 Rabi-ul-Awwal 1425

ISLAMABAD, May 14: Pakistan People's Party (PPP) chairperson Benazir Bhutto has felicitated Sonia Gandhi and her party, Indian National Congress, on their victory in the national elections in India.

Ms Bhutto also offered congratulations to Ms Gandhi on election of her son, Rahul Gandhi, as a member parliament.

"As a descendant of the famous Nehru family, he now holds in his hands the torch of a new generation.

"The road of political leadership is one strewn with challenges. By taking on the mantle of leadership in the wake of tragedy that could have broken a lesser person, you have shown courage and perseverance," she added.

The PPP leader said holding of fair elections under an independent election commission ensured that the people of India got a government, which was representative of their aspirations. It is the will of the Indian people expressed through regular and free elections, which has promoted India's image as the world's biggest democracy, she added.