Former US commerce secretary William Daley, a strong advocate of enhanced Indo-US ties, has been chosen by President Barack Obama [ Images ] as his new Chief of Staff.

Daley, 62, would replace Pete Rouse, interim chief of staff, who would become the counselor to the US President. He will be the long-term successor to former chief of staff Rahm Emanuel, who left the administration last year in a bid to win election as mayor of Chicago.

Obama is expected to make an announcement in this regard later in the day. Daley is currently an executive with J P Morgan Chase. Daley is considered to be a close friend of India [ Images ] and has been a strong advocate of enhanced Indo-US trade ties. He is also supportive of outsourcing.