India, Nepal have laid foundation of new relationship: Modi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Monday said India and Nepal have laid the foundation for a new relationship which will draw strength from deep ancient links between the two countries and prepare them to together address the opportunities and challenges of the 21st century.

In his statement on arrival from Nepal, Modi said he felt deeply honoured with the privilege to speak to the members of the himalayan nation's Constituent Assembly and the visit had moved him.

Modi said he had returned from "two memorable days in Kathmandu" and thanked President Ram Baran Yadav, Prime Minister Sushil Koirala, political parties and people of Nepal for the "extraordinary warmth and affection" with which he 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," he said.

Modi said that during his visit, he felt a strong urge for "political stability and economic prosperity" for everyone he 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," he added.

"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," Modi added.

Modi said he not only look forward to returning to Nepal in November (for the SAARC meeting) and to the opportunity to visit other places, but to a more sustained process of political engagement between the two countries.