India's prime minister has called the Iraqi elections "a historic day for the people of Iraq," saying New Delhi will do everything possible to assist Baghdad in its efforts to rebuild the country.

Prime Minister Manmohan Singh also expressed hope for warm relations with the future democratic government of Iraq.

Meanwhile, Pakistan said it hopes the Iraqi elections will lead to stability and the country will regain full control over its rich oil reserves.

Foreign office spokesman Masood Khan said Pakistan also hopes the election process culminates in a stable, unified, sovereign and independent Iraq.

In Kabul, Afghan President Hamid Karzai said he was encouraged by reports of higher than expected voter turnout.