Privilege to address largest democracy: Obama

"As a representative of the world's oldest democracy, it is a true privilege and honour to address the world's largest democracy."

The words were written by US President Barack Obama in the newly introduced Golden Book in Parliament immediately after he came to the historic Central Hall to address the MPs.

"May the friendship between the two countries continue to grow in the years to come," 49-year-old Obama, who is left-handed, wrote as the entire gathering comprising a galaxy of leaders stood cheering.

The Golden Book concept is the brainchild of Lok Sabha Speaker Meira Kumar and Obama was the first dignitary to sign it, Parliament officials said.