Richard Verma, the new US envoy to India, arrives

The 46-year-old Richard Verma, former assistant secretary of state for legislative affairs, is the first ever Indian-American to be appointed as the top US envoy to India.

The new US Ambassador to India Richard Verma, who arrived in New Delhi on Friday, said he was looking forward to work with India on the shared goals of security, development and prosperity as he described the times as “exciting” for the ties.

The 46-year-old Verma, former assistant secretary of state for legislative affairs, is the first ever Indian-American to be appointed as the top US envoy to India. His arrival comes ahead of US President Barack Obama's visit to New Delhi later this month to attend Republic Day on January 26 as the chief guest.

“I am honoured to serve as US ambassador to India at such an exciting time in our bilateral relationship. I look forward to meeting the Indian people and working together with the Indian government on our shared goals of security, development, and prosperity," Verma said in a release issued by the US embassy.

He will continue the US Mission's work in advancing the US-India strategic partnership, the release said.