Washington, Nov 15: The White House has said it was looking forward to early confirmation of David Mulford as Ambassador to India by the US Senate. US President George W Bush on Thursday named Credit Suisse International chairman Mulford to replace Robert Blackwill, who vacated the post in July. The nomination has to be approved by the Senate.
Asked why it took so long to name Mulford, White House Press Secretary Scott McClellan yesterday said, "We move as quickly as we can, but it's important that we find the best individual for the job."
"He replaces, or will replace, a very highly qualified individual who did an outstanding job. And so we look forward to the senate moving quickly to confirm him, as well," McClellan said.
To a question whether Blackwill had recommended Mulford's candidature, McClellan said, "We certainly always take advice from those who have expertise in that area. And the President was pleased to put forward the new Ambassador, and looks forward to him starting in his position." Bureau Report