KATHMANDU: The United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon expressed sorrow over the demise of Nepali Congress President and former Prime Minister Sushil Koirala.

A condolence message issued on behalf the UN Secretary-General by his spokesman states that Ban was saddened by the demise of Koirala, a widely respected political leader who guided Nepal through its complex transition and constitutional process.

Koirala worked tirelessly to unify people and bring parties together in a spirit of compromise; he greatly contributed towards Nepal's democratisation and peace process, the message reads.

The Secretary-General extends his condolences to the Koirala family and the people of Nepal.