PM Modi speaks with Nepal's interim PM Sushila Karki, offers condolences, reaffirms support for peace

New Delhi [India], September 18 (HBTV): Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday spoke with Sushila Karki, Prime Minister of the interim Government of Nepal, and conveyed his condolences over the loss of lives during recent protests led by the Gen Z movement.

In a post on X, PM Modi said he reaffirmed India's commitment to supporting Nepal’s efforts to restore peace and stability and extended greetings to her and the people of Nepal on their National Day.‘Had a warm conversation with Mrs. Sushila Karki, Prime Minister of the Interim Government of Nepal. Conveyed heartfelt condolences on the recent tragic loss of lives and reaffirmed India's steadfast support for her efforts to restore peace and stability. Also, I extended warm greetings to her and the people of Nepal on their National Day tomorrow,’ PM Modi said.

The call came days after Karki assumed charge as interim Prime Minister following the dissolution of Parliament in the wake of violent clashes and protests on September 8. The protests, largely driven by Gen Z youth activists, were triggered by frustration over corruption, lack of accountability, and a social media ban imposed by the previous government.

Karki, Nepal’s first woman Chief Justice and now the first woman Prime Minister, is backed by the Gen Z-led movement that has reshaped the country’s political landscape. She will serve until March 5, 2026, after which fresh elections will be held.

The 73-year-old was sworn in as interim Prime Minister on Friday after protesters endorsed her as their nominee for the role, citing her integrity and independence. Her appointment followed the resignation of Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli amid the unrest.

Earlier on Tuesday, India’s Ambassador to Nepal, Naveen Srivastava, met Karki at her office in Singha Durbar. He conveyed Prime Minister Modi’s congratulatory message on her appointment and reaffirmed India’s commitment to strengthening ties between the two countries.‘H. E. Mr. Naveen Srivastava, Ambassador of India, paid a courtesy call on Rt. Hon'ble Prime Minister Mrs. Sushila Karki at her office in Singha Durbar today. Ambassador Srivastava conveyed the congratulatory message from Hon. Prime Minister of India Shri Narendra Modi, to the Rt. Hon. Prime Minister on her appointment as the Prime Minister of Nepal and expressed India's commitment to work together for further strengthening the close bonds of friendship and cooperation between the two neighbouring countries,’ Nepal’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs posted on X.

(ANI)