Paying homage to victims of the recent terror attacks in Mumbai, New Jersey state Governor Jon S Corzine has expressed hope that those responsible for the incident would be brought to justice.
Indian Consul General Prabhu Dayal was especially invited to attend the opening session of the legislature at which Corzine delivered his "State of the State" address.
The people of New Jersey, Corzine said, share the anguish of people of India at Mumbai attacks.
"Your Excellency, all of us are saddened by the tragic events in Mumbai. We pray, as I am sure all of you do, that those accountable will be held responsible to action and brought to justice but more importantly, we reach out and pray for the healing of your great community and country. Thank you for being with us," the Governor told Dayal who was given the privilege of sitting in chamber for governor's cabinet and executive staff.
At the outset, Dayal, introduced as a "special guest," greeted the house to a thunderous applause.
"I am gratified by the Governor's support for the people of India and victims of the Mumbai terror attacks. I am touched by the anguish he expressed at the terrible tragedy on Nov 26 that devastated Mumbai and stunned the world," said Dayal later.
The special invitation to him, he said, is a tribute to growing friendship between the US and India, added Dayal who is the first Indian Consul General to be given the honour.
On Dec 15, Dayal became the first Indian diplomat to address the New Jersey lawmakers after he was handed over a historic resolution adopted by the Assembly condemning the Mumbai terror attacks.
The first and only American-Indian New Jersey lawmaker Upendra J Chivukula said the invitation to Dayal showed the ever strengthening ties between India and the US and growing influence of the Indian-American community in the State.
"The Governor and legislative leadership of New Jersey have been highly supportive of initiatives that strengthen ties between the people of the United States and the people of India," Chivukula added.
Last week, the New York State Assembly had observed one minute of silence to pay homage to the victims of the Mumbai terror attack and had also invited Dayal to attend the proceedings of the opening day.