London, Apr 3 (ANI): Impressed by Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh’s persona, U.S President Barack Obama described him as a “wise” and “wonderful” man.

The 48-year-old new American leader said: “First of all I should say that your Prime Minister is a wonderful man. He is a wise and decent man.”

Referring to Singh’s role in India’s economic liberalization, Obama said: “He (Singh) has been doing a wonderful job in guiding India even prior to being the Prime Minister along the path of extraordinary economic growth. That is a marvel, I think, for all of the world.”

Hailing India’s democratic and diverse character, Obama said, “India is full of diversity and energy and is complex just like the USA.”

Praising Obama, Dr. Singh in his reply said, “You are much loved and respected in India.”

The 76-year-old Indian leader said Obama had “brought a ray of hope” and the youth look up to him “as an icon”.

Inviting the first non-white US President to India, Dr. Singh said a warm welcome awaits him there.

Both the leaders met on the sidelines of G-20 summit in London on Thursday night. (ANI)