'Nepal-Pakistan ties cordial'

By A Staff Reporter

Kathmandu, Aug 15 : The 75th Independence Day of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan was observed amidst a special function here on Sunday.

Vice President Nanda Bahadur Pun inaugurated the programme by lighting a traditional oil-fed lamp. Nepal-Pakistan Friendship and Cultural Association (NPFCA) organised the function.

Speaking at the event, Minister for Labour, Employment and Social Security Sher Bahadur Kunwar said that Nepal and Pakistan had maintained cordial ties since the establishment of their diplomatic relations in 1960 and this bond would continue to grow in the days to come.

Pakistani ambassador to Nepal Syed Haider Shah appreciated NPFCA for its role in promoting Nepal-Pakistan relations. Stating that the two nations share a common cultural and civilisational ethos, the Pakistani envoy noted that his country always wished for prosperity and peace in Nepal.

NPFCA president Himalaya Shumsher Rana said the relationship between the two nations had been characterised by mutual cooperation and friendship. "The people of the two nations want peace, development and stability in the region."

NPFCA general secretary Dr Manju Ratna Sakya said that the Association had been organising medical camps to benefit the poor, sick, elderly citizens, Dalit and those from the marginalised groups. "It is committed to enhancing Nepal-Pakistan ties at the government-to-government and people-to-people levels."

People from different walks of life, including diplomats, journalists, business persons and high-ranking government officials attended the programme.