Indian ambassador: SC Gov. Haley is ‘a star’

CHARLESTON, S.C. (AP) — The ambassador from India to the United States says she is anxious to meet South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley this week.

The ambassador, Nirupama Rao, told reporters Monday in Charleston that Haley is “a star” in India and people there know all about her rise to political prominence. Both of Haley’s parents were born in India and immigrated to South Carolina.

Rao, who assumed the post of ambassador last summer and is making her first trip to South Carolina, says she’s looking forward to meeting with Haley in Columbia Wednesday.

On Tuesday the ambassador was touring the Port of Charleston as part of a visit to strengthen economic ties between her nation and South Carolina. During her three-day visit she will also tour the BMW plant in Greer.