Compare the Effect of Aliskiren Plus Valsartan Versus Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme Inhibitor (ACEi) Plus Angiotensin Receptor Blocker (ARB) [Ramipril Plus Telmisartan] on the Renin-Angiotensin-Aldosterone System (RAAS) in Hypertensive Patients

Inclusion Criteria: * Males or females of non-childbearing potential, 18 to 65 years of age with moderate hypertension * Patients who are eligible and able to participate in the study Exclusion criteria: * Severe hypertension or secondary form of hypertension. * Serum potassium \> 5.1 mEq/L (mmol/L) * Heart failure * Any history of hypertensive encephalopathy or cerebrovascular accident; any history of TIA, myocardial infarction, coronary bypass surgery or percutaneous coronary intervention * Uncontrolled or life-threatening arrythmia Other protocol-defined inclusion/exclusion criteria may apply