Rt. Honourable Mr. Khadga Prasad Sharma Oli, the Prime Minister of Nepal called on President Pranab Mukherjee at Rashtrapati Bhavan yesterday (February 20, 2016).

Welcoming Mr. Oli on his first visit to India as Prime Minister of Nepal, the President appreciated the Nepalese Prime Minister for selecting India for his first visit abroad as Prime Minister of Nepal. He said that he was honoured that Mr. Oli is staying at the Rashtrapati Bhavan.

The President said India’s only interest is long-term peace and stability of a strong and united Nepal. The open border between India and Nepal is a unique aspect of relationship. India is committed to further strengthening mutually beneficial cooperation. He expressed confidence that the Nepal Prime Minister's interaction with the Indian leadership would further strengthen the friendship between the two countries.

The Nepalese Prime Minister reciprocated the President’s sentiments and said the two countries had a great deal in common and belonged to one culture and one civilization. He expressed gratitude for India's immediate assistance following the earthquake and for the support announced during the Donors Conference.

This release issued at 1220 hrs.