Kathmandu, Sept 20

President Bidhya Devi Bhandari today said the constitution promulgated by the Constituent Assembly had institutionalised the federal democratic republic.

At a programme organised at Sheetal Niwas, on the occasion of Constitution Day today, President Bhandari said the constitution had adopted major characteristics of democracy and progressive society such as human rights, rule of law, inclusiveness, independent judiciary, free press, separation of power, checks and balance and social justice.

Stating that the constitution of Nepal was promulgated as a result of people’s continuous struggle and movements, she extended best wishes to all.

The president said, “I am feeling proud as all Nepalis are celebrating this day as a national festival.”

President Bhandari said that Nepal was one of the founding countries of non-aligned movement and added that Nepal was a member country of SAARC, BIMSTEC as well as other regional organisations. Nepal has been active to establish friendly relations with all countries as well as strengthening relations by adhering to the UN Charter, she reminded.

President Bhandari also stated that Nepal had made tremendous achievements in the sector of women empowerment and their representation at decision making level.

President said the incumbent government was committed to ensuring equality and creating socialism-oriented economy as stipulated by the constitution.

According to her, the incumbent government was also working to materialise the national aspiration of ‘Prosperous Nepal, Happy Nepali’ for the socio-economic development of the country.

President Bhandari was hopeful that Nepal’s natural resources and cooperation with the neighbouring countries and international development partners would contribute to Nepal’s journey towards development.

Stating that Nepal is a multi-cultural country, the president said social goodwill and tolerance were important qualities of all Nepalis. On the occasion, she also offered tribute to the martyrs, who sacrificed their lives for freedom.

Vice-president Nanda Bahadur Pun, Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli, Chief Justice Cholendra Shumsher JB Rana, chairperson of the National Assembly, ministers, representatives from the business community, artistes and heads of the foreign diplomatic missions in Nepal also participated in the programme organised.