Nepal’s Prime Minister’s Office on Saturday thanked Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his congratulatory message following Balendra ‘Balen’ Shah’s swearing-in as Nepal’s prime minister. Responding on X, the PMO said Shah was “eager to work closely” with Modi to deepen the multifaceted relationship between the two neighbours and promote the common prosperity of their peoples.
Modi had extended his best wishes on Friday, saying Shah’s appointment reflected the trust placed in his leadership by the people of Nepal. In his message, Modi expressed optimism about closer collaboration and said he looked forward to working with Shah to further strengthen India–Nepal friendship and cooperation for mutual benefit.
Shah was sworn in at a ceremony at the President’s Office on Friday after President Ramchandra Paudel appointed him under Article 76(1) of the Constitution. The oath of office and secrecy was administered by the president. The event was attended by Vice President Ram Sahaya Prasad Yadav, Chief Justice Prakash Man Singh Raut, National Assembly Chair Narayan Prasad Dahal, former prime ministers, senior officials, security chiefs and members of the diplomatic community.
Both leaders signalled a willingness to engage closely after the transition, with Kathmandu signalling an early emphasis on strengthening ties with New Delhi across political, economic and people-to-people dimensions.
