Kathmandu, Jan. 6 : Kathmandu Metropolitan City organised a civic reception in honour of visiting Mongolian President Natsagiin Bagabandi and Madame A Oyunbileg at Birendra International Convention Centre here today.
On the occasion, Mayor of Kathmandu Keshav Sthapit read out a letter of felicitations and offered it to President Bagabandi. The letter of felicitations was presented in an artistically made silver cascade.
Mayor Sthapit also presented President Bagabandi an artistic pictureframe and a Bhadgaunle Topi (Nepali cap), and a Pashmina shawl to Madame Oyunbileg.
The distinguished guests were also presented gifts by President of the Federation of Nepalese Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FNCCI) Pradeep Kumar Shrestha.
Earlier, on arrival at the civic reception venue, the distinguished guests were accorded a rousing welcome by the citizens of Kathmandu.
Addressing the programme, Mongolian President Mr Bagabandi pointed out the need to consolidate further the centuries-old profound relations between Nepal and Mongolia.
Though far apart in geographical terms Nepal and Mongolia share similarity in many areas including culture, tradition, daily lifestyle and religious faith, Mr Bagabandi said adding that the main objective of his visit is to enhance the friendly relationship between the two countries in the 21st century.
Expressing happiness over the according of high importance to his visit to Nepal, the President also said matters of common interest between the two countries especially in tourism, trade, agriculture, health and the like could be discussed and enhanced through mutual interaction.
Referring to his visits today to sacred religious sites like Swoyambhu and Lumbini and the laying of the foundation stone for a Mongolian temple at Lumbini, President Bagabandi expressed confidence that completion of the temple will add a new dimension to bilateral relations between the two countries.
Welcoming the President, Mayor Sthapit expressed conviction that the President’s visit would further deepen the existing close and friendly relations between the two countries.
Nepal, the birthplace of Lord Gautam Buddha, and Mongolia, which follows the Buddhist religion, share many things in common, and we are both working to build our nations wiping out poverty and backwardness, the mayor said adding, we also have a common attitude and approach in the upliftment of underdeveloped countries and providing peace to the entire human community.
Deputy Mayor Bidur Mainali offered a vote of thanks.
Deputy Prime Minister Ramchandra Poudel and heads of constitutional bodies were also present on the occasion.