Indian Prez Mukherjee congratulates Bhandari

KATHMANDU: Indian President Pranab Mukherjee on Thursday congratulated Bidya Devi Bhandari for being elected as the first female and second President of Nepal.

In his message, the President said, "Please accept on behalf of the people and Government of India and on my own behalf, warm felicitations on your election as President of Nepal."

Your election comes at a critical juncture in Nepal’s history, he said.

"I am confident that under your guidance, the country will move towards peace, stability and development by accommodating the aspirations of all the Nepali people."

India attaches the highest priority to further development of our close and multi-faceted relationship with Nepal, the President said.

As a close friend and neighbour, India will continue to extend all possible assistance and cooperation in accordance with the priorities and wishes of the government and people of Nepal.

"I look forward to working with you towards further strengthening the understanding and cooperation between our two countries."

"I would also like to avail of this opportunity to convey my best wishes for your personal health and well-being," Mukherjee said.

US President Obama congratulates Bhandari

Meanwhile, US President Barack Obama also congratulated Bhandari for being elected as the first female President of Nepal.

"The United States looks forward to continuing to partner with the people and government of Nepal as they build a more unified, stable, and prosperous country and rebuild after the devastating earthquake and its aftershocks earlier this year, " read the statement issued by the While House today.

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