"I on behalf of the government and people of Nepal as well as on my own extend my warmest congratulations to Your Excellency and the friendly people of Sri Lanka," Koirala said today in a congratulatory message.

"The people of Sri Lanka have, once again, reposed, faith in your able leadership to serve the country as Prime Minister."

"Your election to Parliament for the first time in 1977 at the age of 28 and your successive election victories thereafter leading to the assumption of the high office of Prime Minister for the fourth time, today, has indeed, been a remarkable part of your political career," Prime Minister Koirala stated his message.

"This has proved your dynamic leadership as well as your substantial contribution to the politics and development of Sri Lanka." he said.

Nepali Premier expressed confidence that "the friendly people of Sri Lanka will continue to enjoy peace, stability and prosperity during your tenure."

Noting that the relationship between Nepal and Sri Lanka is "embedded by friendship, goodwill, mutual understanding and cooperation," PM Koirala said socio-cultural values, traditions, mutual trust and strong bonds of affiliation bind the peoples of the two countries.

The Nepali Prime Minister expressed his desire to work closely with Prime Minister Wickremesinghe for further strengthening Nepal-Sri Lanka relations to the mutual benefit of both countries.

He also expressed his best wishes for the successful tenure and success in further strengthening the foundations of democratic institutions in the country.