New Delhi, March 9 (NationPress) President of the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), Rabi Lamichhane, expressed his appreciation to Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday for his congratulatory note following the RSP's significant win in the Nepal parliamentary elections held on March 5. Lamichhane stated that the new administration would focus on "development diplomacy" and enhancing relations with India.

In a message shared on X, Lamichhane conveyed his gratitude for the Prime Minister's acknowledgment of the democratic decision made by the Nepalese populace, which will shape his party's strategies for regional collaboration and economic advancement.

"Thank you, Prime Minister @narendramodi, for your heartfelt wishes and for recognizing the democratic mandate of the Nepali people," Lamichhane stated.

He affirmed that the RSP and the forthcoming government would be dedicated to nurturing a relationship with India characterized by mutual respect and shared prosperity.

"The RSP and our government are committed to cultivating a partnership grounded in mutual respect and shared prosperity, with a strong emphasis on development diplomacy," he added.

Lamichhane also expressed optimism that Nepal and India would strengthen cooperation in various sectors crucial for economic growth and regional connectivity.

“We anticipate a partnership with India that reaches new heights through collaboration in connectivity, cultural tourism, energy, and trade, paving the way for a prosperous future for both nations,” he stated.

Previously, with the RSP's overwhelming victory in Nepal's parliamentary elections confirmed, both Rabi Lamichhane and senior leader Balen Shah received congratulatory calls from Prime Minister Modi on Monday.

PM Modi shared on social media that he had spoken with Lamichhane and Shah, who is projected to be the next Prime Minister of Nepal.

"I congratulated both leaders on their electoral victories and the RSP's remarkable success in the Nepal elections," PM Modi wrote.

"I conveyed my best wishes for their upcoming government and reiterated India’s commitment to collaborate with them for the mutual benefit, progress, and welfare of our two nations. I am confident that through our joint efforts, India-Nepal relations will ascend to new heights in the forthcoming years."

As the vote tally concluded in 163 out of 165 constituencies under the First-Past-the-Post (FPTP) system by Monday evening, the RSP had won 125 seats, representing approximately 76 percent of the total.

India had assisted Nepal in conducting this year's elections by providing 650 vehicles and additional election materials. India's support for Nepal's elections has been ongoing since the 2008 Constituent Assembly elections, contributing 2,400 vehicles in prior polls.