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WASHINGTON: Democratic presidential nominee Barack Obama has extended his greetings to the Sikh community in America on the tercentenary celebrations of consecration of the Guru Granth Sahib.

In a letter addressed to the American Gurudwara Parbandhak Committee, Obama also thanked the Sikhs for their efforts to promote cultural diversity.

"Throughout the world, Sikh communities are celebrating the tercentenary of the Guruship of Sri Guru Granth Sahib," Senator Obama said. The message has been posted in media websites here.

"Sri Guru Granth Sahib is considered the universal spiritual leader and guiding light for the Sikh community. In 1708, Guru Gobind Singh officially ordained Guru Granth Sahib as the final and perpetual Guru of Sikhs. This worldwide celebration will commemorate the 300 years of consecration of Guru Granth Sahib and the anniversary of the accession of Guru Gobind Singh," he wrote.

On the occasion, both Sikh and non-Sikh community members will gather to promote and honour the contributions that the Gurus have made to the Sikh community, he added.

"I would like to extend my congratulations to the American Gurudwara Parbandhak Committee and thank them for their ongoing efforts to promote cultural diversity and awareness on behalf of the Sikh community," he said.