Saturday, December 10 2005 19:58 Hrs (IST) - World Time -

Washington: United States (US) President George W Bush has said that he looks forward to his visit to India early next year.

The President said this at an annual White House holiday party to which prominent Indian American physician Dr. Shivangi was the only one from the community to be invited.

During the party held recently, Shivangi spoke to the President briefly about matters related to India. "The President responded happily that he is looking forward to going to India in early 2006," a statement put out by the physician said.

"Dr. Shivangi complimented President Bush on his tough stand on terrorism and reiterated that India and Indian Americans shared his vision on the importance of defeating those that would resort to terrorism.

"The discussion concluded with Dr. Shivangi thanking the President for his cordiality and friendship towards India and recent support on the nuclear treaty with the country."

Bush is scheduled to visit India in the first quarter of 2006.