Koirala tags SAARC summit as ''fruitful and respectful''

Kathmandu, Apr 6 (UNI) Nepali Prime Minister Girija Prasad Koirala who returned today after attending the SAARC summit at New Delhi defined the summit as "fruitful and respectful for Nepal." Nepal Foreign Minister Sahana Pradhan, who accompanied the Prime Minister, said the international community had attached importance to Nepal because of the example the Himalayan nation had set through the peace process.

"Indian government had given its word that it would look into this matter", she said.

India was positive about cooperation in controlling crime in the border region, Ms Pradhan added.

The Summit was also attended by the heads of state and government of Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, the Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan and Sri Lanka.

Representatives from Japan and China also were also present at the SAARC summit as observers.

Talking to journalists before leaving New Delhi Koirala asked reporters to say only "Gyanendra" and not "King Gyanendra." "Nepali Congress will decide about the monarchy just before the election of the constituent assembly and make election masala (spice)", The Kathmandu Post quoted Koirala as saying.

Senior officials, diplomats and other distinguished personalities were present at the airport to welcome Mr Koirala.

UNI