The Prime Minister, Dr. Manmohan Singh has congratulated Prime Minister Sushil Koirala of Nepal on his election. Dr. Mamohan Singh in his message said Mr. Koirala's election as Prime Minister represented an important milestone in consolidating the democratic gains in political transition in Nepal.

The excerpts of the Prime Minister's congratulatory message is as follows:-

"On behalf of the Government and people of India, please accept my warm felicitations on your election to the high office of Prime Minister of Nepal. Your election represents one more important milestone in consolidating and institutionalising recent democratic gains in the course of the political transition in Nepal.

I am confident that your wise leadership and guidance will further strengthen stability and economic development in Nepal, and foster a climate for promulgation of a new Constitution on the basis of the widest possible consensus and reflecting the will of all sections of the people of your nation.

India attaches the highest importance to its relations with Nepal. As close neighbours with a unique relationship and deep links across all walks of life, our fortunes are closely intertwined. We in India, therefore, not only share the aspirations of the people of Nepal for stability, democracy and prosperity, but also remain steadfast in our support to the Government and people of Nepal in their endeavours to pursue that goal. We will therefore continue to seek further deepening of this partnership between our two countries for the benefit of our people and our region.

As you enter the high office at a critical juncture in your nation's history, I convey my best wishes for your success, your personal health and well being and peace and prosperity for the people of Nepal.

I also take this opportunity to extend a warm and cordial invitation to you to visit India at your convenience."