Modi terms Nepal trip memorable, thanks govt of Nepal

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who returned on Tuesday from a two-day bilateral visit to Nepal, has termed the trip memorable and thanked the Nepalese government for their warmth and affection.

"I have just returned to Delhi after two memorable days in Kathmandu. I want to thank President Ram Baran Yadav, Prime Minister Sushil Koirala, the government of Nepal, all the political parties, officials, security personnel and, above all, the people of Nepal for the extraordinary warmth and affection with which I was welcomed in Nepal. It made feel as though I had come home. This experience has moved me and added another dimension to my personal relationship with Nepal," the PM said in his official statement.

He further said, "I felt deeply honoured with the privilege to speak to the Members of the Constituent Assembly of Nepal. During my two-day visit, I felt the strong urge for political stability and economic prosperity in everyone I met in Nepal. I am confident that Nepal, rich in resources, talent and diversity, will quickly carve out its destiny as a stable, inclusive and prosperous nation that will be a source of pride for South Asia and an inspiration for others around the world."

"I also believe that together we have laid the foundation for a new relationship between our two countries, which will draw strength from our deep ancient links and prepare us to together address the opportunities and challenges of the 21st century. I will leave no stone unturned to translate our vision into reality, and our commitments into action," he added.

Modi added that he not only looked forward to returning to Nepal in November and to the opportunity to visit other places, but to a more sustained process of political engagement between India and Nepal.

Narendra Modi is the first Indian Prime Minister to undertake a bilateral visit to Nepal in 17 years.

He was given a Guard of Honour in Kathmandu upon his departure from Nepal and even addressed Nepal's constituent assembly where he not only praised the existing bond between the two countries but also assured that India will make all the efforts required to take Nepal to new heights.