NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday sent a message of friendship to Nepal, congratulating Sushila Karki on becoming the country’s first woman Prime Minister and reaffirming the deep ties between the two neighbours. Speaking at a public meeting in Imphal, during his first visit to the conflict-hit state since violence broke out in 2023, PM Modi called Nepal a “close friend” of India and said the two nations are connected by “shared history and faith.”PM Modi in Manipur – Follow live updates“Today, from this land of Manipur, I will also talk to my colleagues in Nepal. Nepal is a friend of India, a close friend. We are connected by shared history, by faith, and are moving forward together,” he said.PM Modi extended “heartfelt congratulations on behalf of 1.4 billion Indians to Smt. Sushila ji on assuming charge as the Prime Minister of the interim government in Nepal,” expressing confidence that “she will pave the way for peace, stability and prosperity in Nepal.”Karki’s swearing-in as Nepal’s first woman Prime Minister, Modi added, was “a very good example of women’s empowerment.” He also praised the resilience of Nepali democracy, saying, “Today, I will praise every person in Nepal who has kept the democratic values supreme even in such an unstable environment.” Referring to images of Nepali youth cleaning and painting roads during recent protests, he said their “positive thinking and positive work are not only inspiring but also a clear indication of Nepal’s new rise.”Karki was sworn in at Sheetal Niwas as Nepal’s first female Prime Minister, following KP Sharma Oli’s resignation amid youth-led anti-corruption protests. Tasked with restoring order and preparing for the March 5 parliamentary elections, her interim government received support from India, which welcomed the move and pledged continued cooperation. Karki’s appointment, backed by Gen Z leaders through a public vote on Discord.

PM Modi during his address also spoke about the ongoing crisis in Manipur. He urged groups in the state to “move forward on the path of peace and fulfil their dreams,” assuring the crowd that “the Government of India is with the people of Manipur. We are working towards the goal of making Manipur a symbol of peace, prosperity and progress.”