E-Kantipur

KATHMANDU, MAR 20 -

Prime Minister Manmohan Singh Saturday condoled the death of former Prime Minister and Nepali Congress (NC) President Girija Prasad Koirala, saying that he was 'one of Nepal's tallest leaders and an elder statesman of South Asia'.

In a condolence message to Koirala's daughter Sujata, the Indian prime minister said he was stunned to learn the passing away of G.P. Koirala.

Koirala, who played a leading role in the peace process and democratic movement in Nepal, died Saturday after a long battle with respiratory problems.

"He was one of Nepal's tallest leaders and an elder statesman of South Asia. Beginning with his days in the trade union movement, he spent his entire political life championing the cause of the people," said Singh in the statement.

Describing Koirala as a "mass leader and a statesman", Singh said his passing away marks the end of an era in Nepalese politics.

He added, "his knowledge and wisdom guided the polity of Nepal in the right direction at critical junctures in the country's history".

"He was first and foremost a democrat and his long struggle to usher in democracy in Nepal reached a successful conclusion when he became the first democratically elected prime minister of Nepal in 1991. He subsequently guided the destiny of the people of Nepal for a further three terms as prime minister," read the statement.

The prime minister said he "personally" had a long association with the departed leader and have "benefited immensely from his wise counsel and advice not only on issues affecting our bilateral ties but also on matters affecting South Asia as a whole."

"He had an enlightened vision of India-Nepal relations and worked sincerely to bring the people of the two countries closer together."

"I convey my deepest sympathies and condolences to his family, friends and followers," the prime minister said.

Posted on: 2010-03-20 12:00

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