Union Commerce and Industry Minister Anand Sharma, who held a series of meeting with a number of US officials in last two days in Washington, hoped better understanding with President Barack Obama and his administration. He said that US considers India as a trusted partner and willing to further promote its political and business ties with the leading democracy of the world.

Mr. Sharma said, "I have no doubt in my mind that the US President Barack Obama and his administration attach enormous significance in engaging India."

He held a series of meetings with Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, Commerce Secretary Gary Locke and US Trade Representatives Ron Kirk and US congress leaders in the sidelines of the 34th anniversary of the US-India Business Council.

The minister further said, "Not only I find that there is a healthy respect for India, the values it spouses, but also the policies and vision of Prime Minister Manmohan Singh especially when it comes to the global crisis."

Meanwhile, Mr. Sharma hoped early resumption of Doha talks, urging US to begin stalled negotiations and warning against protectionist measures and trade barriers.