Dharamsala, Aug 7 (IANS): US senators greeted the Tibetan prime minister-elect Lobsang Sangay on the eve of his oath taking ceremony, according to the website of the Central Tibetan Administration (CTA) Sunday.

Senator Joseph Lieberman of Connecticut in a message to the Tibetans said: "I am pleased to extend my deepest congratulations to Lobsang Sangay on the occasion of his inauguration as the democratically-elected Kalon Tripa (prime minister-in-exile)."

"The US has a natural bond with and affinity for fellow democracies, and so the progress of Tibetan democracy - of which today marks an important milestone - brings our two people closer together," said the message.

Lieberman said: "Guided by the Kalon Tripa's political leadership and the spiritual wisdom and leadership of His Holiness the Dalai Lama, I am confident that the Central Tibetan Administration will continue to thrive in the years ahead."

Another Congressman James P. McGovern of Massachusetts in a speech in the US House of Representative last week gave his best wishes to Sangay.

"Dr Lobsang Sangay takes over as chief executive of the Central Tibet Administration at a critical point, as much of the political responsibilities for the Tibetan community in exile now reside on his shoulders," McGovern said.

"I had the chance to meet Lobsang Sangay when he came to Capitol Hill in July 2011, during the Dalai Lama's visit to Washington. I look forward to his return to discuss ways the United States can help Tibetans in their endeavour to find a solution for the Tibet issue," added McGovern.

Sangay will take the oath of office at a ceremony in Tsuglagkhang, the main temple here, Monday morning.