Bangalore: The India-US relationship has witnessed a positive trajectory over the last 12 years and the relationship did not retreat during the Obama administration, says Mike Hammer, Assistant Secretary of State for Public Affairs.

"I would simply say that the trajectory has been an incredibly positive one over the last, certainly, 12 years, and I think it is likely to continue, again, because the United States recognises the important role that India plays on the world stage, how significant and influential India can be in advancing, again, the issues of common concern," the Assistant Secretary of State for Public Affairs, Mike Hammer told foreign journalists at a news conference, reports PTI.

"So that's something that this Administration has certainly built on, strengthened, and one would look to want to continue," Hammer said at the Foreign Press Center.

Hammer also replied to the question asked to him regarding the remarks made by Mitchell Reiss from the Romney Camp on the retreating India US relationship under the Obama Administration.

"I'm not going to get into politics or questions of that nature, but let me just comment more broadly that in my experience, you’ve seen a real bipartisan approach to our efforts to improve and strengthen our relationship with India," he said.

"I saw that when I first worked in the White House in the Clinton Administration, had the very good fortune of travelling with President (Bill) Clinton to India for a real incredible trip where we spent several days.
"And to start deepening that partnership, you saw the continuation of that effort through the Bush administration and now into the Obama Administration," he said.

According to Hammer Obama has developed a "terrific relationship" with Manmohan Singh.

"I think that's reflected in the work that we do every day to strengthen that strategic partnership," he said.

"Our sense is that we continue to improve and strengthen that relationship. It serves both our interests together. We share common values in terms of democratic values. We want to see economic prosperity reach very important commercial deals that benefit both countries," Hammer added.