Himalayan News Service

New Delhi, February 26:

Visiting US Senator and former first lady Hillary Clinton disarmed Indian political leaders and industry captains here with her infectious candour and delightful views. “All she did was drop a few honest words at a dinner hosted by (Agriculture Minister) Sharad Pawar and the gathering turned full of admiration for her,” an official who was present at the dinner yesterday said.

“I saw you on TV talking about promoting India...Your enthusiasm is infectious! I have a suggestion: why don’t you ask every NRI visiting here to bring a friend along?” Clinton, clad in a red trouser and jacket ensemble and sporting a gold brooch, told a delighted Tourism Minister Renuka Chowdhury. “Indians and Americans must engage more,” she was quoted by the official as saying.

Hillary Clinton, wife of former US president Bill Clinton, this evening addresses a leadership conclave organised by India Today. She earlier called on Prime Minister Manmohan Singh in what was described as “a nice meeting and both enjoyed it”. The two leaders discussed issues ranging from healthcare, education, India-US ties and South Asia.