New Delhi: Hailing as "positive" a Portuguese court ruling on extradition of underworld don Abu Salem, India tonight (Feb 05, 2004) voiced appreciation for the "excellent co-operation" of Lisbon.

New Delhi "would like to express appreciation for the excellent co-operation of the Portuguese Government and pay tribute to the efficiency of the Portuguese judicial process which has accepted and upheld the veracity of our claims in this case," External Affairs Ministry spokesman said.

Salem, an Indian national and a well-known international terrorist, was involved in several criminal acts including the 1993 Mumbai serial bomb blasts that killed more than 300 people and caused extensive damage to property.

Salem was arrested in Lisbon on September 18, 2002 for possession false identity documents. A Portugal court has ordered his extradition to India.

Indian spokesman said, "considers this positive decision as vital, not only for India's national security interests, but also in the context of the global fight against terrorism. We are awaiting further developments in this regard."