Washington, Jul 26 (IANS): Calling Pranab Mukherjee a strong partner to America and the American people, US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton has congratulated him on becoming the 13th President of India.

Mukherjee had worked throughout his career to deepen India-US cooperation on a wide range of issues, she said in a statement Wednesday after he assumed India's highest office. She looked forward to continuing to work with the government and people of India, Clinton said adding, "Together we will build on our shared democratic values, strengthen this relationship even more and create a brighter future for both our people."

Text of Clinton statement:

"I want to congratulate President Mukherjee on his swearing-in as the 13th President of India. President Mukherjee has been a strong partner to America and the American people, working throughout his career to deepen our cooperation on a wide range of issues.

"I look forward to continuing to work with the government and people of India. Together we will build on our shared democratic values, strengthen this relationship even more and create a brighter future for both our people."