KATHMANDU: The CPN-UML General Secretary Ishwor Pokharel on Saturday viewed that contribution of unifier of modern Nepal, Prithvi Narayan Shah, should not be forgotten, and that he deserves due respect.

Those who avoid respecting history would finish their future themselves, he said while speaking at a discussion on 'Nepali nationality and Prithvi Narayan Shah' organised in the Capital on the 269th birth anniversary of Prithvi Narayan Shah.

"We take the unification campaign by Prithvi Narayan Shah in a positive way and we respect it. This is our belief, and our understanding is that we can move ahead only by respecting history," he said.

He also stressed the need for starting a national debate on identity, representation and access.

Likewise, former minister Modanath Prashrit said only those who divide the spirit of national unity would undermine Prithvi Narayan Shah.

Prof Dr Jagman Gurung said it was the need of the hour to honour and respect Prithvi Narayan Shah.