KATHMANDU: Belgian King Philip Leopold Lewis Marie has said Nepal witnessed sea changes in its socio-economic and political landscapes since his visit to Nepal in 1998.

"There have been sea changes in Nepal's political, economic as well as socio-cultural landscapes,” King Philippe said after receiving the letter of credence from newly appointed Nepali Ambassador to Belgium Lok Bahadur Thapa.

The envoy had presented his Letters of Credence to King Philippe amidst a special ceremony held at Royal Laeken Castle in Brussels on Wednesday.

A release issued by the Nepali Embassy in Brussels said during his brief talks with the envoy following the credential ceremony, the King also recalled his ‘fond memories’ of his visit to Nepal.

As the Crown Prince of Belgium, Philippe had come to Nepal in 1998.

King Philippe also congratulated Thapa for his appointment and wished him success in further strengthening the existing bilateral ties between Nepal and Belgium.

Thapa, on his part, expressed his happiness over the state of bilateral relations and economic cooperation between the two countries, according to the release.

He further mentioned that he would be making unremitting efforts to lead these relations to a new height during his tenure.

Thapa is the 6th Ambassador of Nepal to Belgium after the establishment of Nepali residential mission in Brussels in 1992.