Nepal PM greets Manmohan Singh on Republic day

Kathmandu, January 26: Nepal Prime Minister Girija Prasad Koirala has greeted President A P J Abdul Kalam and Prime Minister Manmohan Singh on the occasion of India's 58th Republic Day.

In a message to Dr Kalam, Prime Minister Koirala wished him good health and happiness, as well as progress and prosperity of the people of India.

He also expressed confidence that 'the long standing cordial and friendly relations between the two countries would grow further and expand into new areas mutually beneficial to the people in the years ahead.' Similarly, Mr Koirala, in a message wished Dr Singh good health and happiness as well as continued progress and prosperity to the people of India.

This is the first time that the Prime Minister of Nepal is extending greetings as head of state and the government after stripping the King of all powers.

UNI