My visit to Nepal was a mission of friendship: Pranab

KATHMANDU: India will support Nepal in its pursuit of peace, stability and development as the two sides focus on implementing bilateral development and connectivity projects, President Pranab Mukherjee said at the conclusion of his state visit on Friday.

Mukherjee described his threeday trip as a “mission of friendship” that reflected the priority India attaches to strengthening its “unique relationship” with Nepal.

In a statement issued as he wrapped up the first visit by an Indian president in 18 years, Mukherjee – who received rousing welcomes in Kathmandu, Janakpur and Pokhara – said: “Our destinies are inter-linked and there is recognition on both sides of the need to advance common prosperity.”

President Bidhya Devi Bhandari, who broke protocol to receive Mukherjee on his arrival, also saw him off at the Tribhuvan International Airport, reflecting the importance attached to the visit.

The trip also signalled a further improvement in ties that were hit by a five-month economic blockade during a protest against Nepal’s new Constitution.

During his meetings with Bhandari, Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal “Prachanda” and leaders of political parties, Mukherjee said India remains committed to enhancing its partnership with Nepal in all areas of priority.

“As two sovereign nations, we wish to take forward our relationship on the basis of trust, goodwill and mutual benefit,” he said in the statement. “The warmth and affection with which I was received by the people and government of Nepal was truly overwhelming,” said Mukherjee, who was feted at civic receptions in Kathmandu and Janakpur.

While performing a special puja at the Pashupati Nath temple, Mukherjee announced that India will undertake two development projects to repair and renovate the ‘ghats’ near the famous shrine on the banks of the Bagmati river.

At Janakpur, Mukherjee announced India will build two ‘dharmashalas’ along the Parikrama Path to be used by pilgrims from both countries.