Prime Minister Narendra Modi reached out to the incoming administration in Washington soon after midnight with a tweet each to congratulate President-elect Joe Biden and his running mate Kamala Harris on their election.

“Congratulations @JoeBiden on your spectacular victory! As the VP, your contribution to strengthening Indo-US relations was critical and invaluable. I look forward to working closely together once again to take India-US relations to greater heights,” the Prime Minister tweeted along with a 2014 photograph of him with the President-elect.

In another tweet, the Prime Minister congratulated Harris: “Heartiest congratulations @KamalaHarris! Your success is pathbreaking, and a matter of immense pride not just for your chittis, but also for all Indian-Americans. I am confident that the vibrant India-US ties will get even stronger with your support and leadership.”

There was no picture accompanying the tweet but the reference to “chittis (aunts)” brought up the special connection that an Indian premier can claim over other world leaders who had already wished the duo.

Harris had referred to her “chittis” in her nomination acceptance speech.