ISLAMABAD, Jan 11: Former Prime Minister and Chairperson of the Pakistan People's Party Benazir Bhutto has felicitated Mahmoud Abbas on his election as President of the Palestinian people.

"This is a historic moment for the people of Palestine," she said in a letter addressed to the newly-elected president and added that "surely this is a moment of great significance as you have become the first Palestinian President following the passing away of the legendary President Yasser Arafat. The people of Palestine have placed the mantle of leadership on your shoulders."

She said, "Our thoughts and prayers are with you and with the Palestinian people. We pray that your victory can move forward the agenda of peace negotiations with Israel for the emergence of a independent and viable Palestinian state."