Washington, Mar 25: The US on Monday congratulated Yousaf Raza Gillani on his election to the office of Pakistan Prime Minister, and reiterated its desire to work with the Pakistani leadership on issues of common interest.

"We congratulate Gillani on his election and look forward to working with him, as with all leaders of Pakistan, in the months ahead," a State Department spokesman said.

Pakistan's National Assembly had on Monday voted 264 - 42 to elect Gillani, the 55-year-old Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) leader.

He will be sworn-in as the head of the new coalition government today.

Pakistan is an important US ally in the war on terror and Washington has been closely observing political developments in Pakistan, the Daily Times reported. (ANI)