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Nepalese leaders laud Narendra Modi`s address to Constituent Assembly
Prime Minister Narendra Modi`s address to the Constituent Assembly here was on Sunday hailed by Nepalese leaders across the political spectrum with Maoist leader Prachanda saying the speech was `touching` and he was visualising the dawn of a new chapter in bilateral ties.
Prachanda, who has been a critic of India, said the way Modi spoke demonstrates that he thoroughly understands the "ups and downs" of Nepal`s peace process.
"His speech was touching and very inspiring," the United Communist Party of Nepal leader whose actual name is Pushpa Kamal Dahal said while commenting on Modi`s 45-minute address. "I feel a new chapter is going to open in India-Nepal relations," said Prachanda who will be meeting Modi tomorrow.
The 60-year-old former Prime Minister had quit the post a few years back following a controversy over sacking of the Army Chief and has since been critical of India.
After Modi`s address, Prachanda said he was "encouraged" and things can move forward after his meeting with the Indian leader tomorrow.
Prachanda had earlier led a decade-long armed Maoist movement before coming overground after an agreement was reached in 2007.
Manohar Bhattarai, Secretary-General of the Constituent Assembly, also said Modi`s speech touched the heart of all Nepalese.
Modi began his hour-long address by speaking in Nepalese, which was received with a round of applause.
Abdul Hameed Siddiqui, MP, said the speech was worth appreciation as it touched all hearts.
Mahesh Vishwakarma of the Nepali Congress also hailed the speech, saying Modi`s focus on neighbourhood was a great gesture.