Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) chairman Rabi Lamichhane has responded to a congratulatory message from India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi following the party’s electoral success in Nepal, stating that the incoming government will prioritize “development diplomacy” and strengthen cooperation with India.
Prime Minister Modi had earlier posted a message on the social media platform X at 9:10 PM on March 9, 2026, stating that he had warm telephone conversations with Lamichhane and RSP senior leader Balendra Shah. In the message, Modi congratulated both leaders on their electoral victories and described the party’s performance in Nepal’s elections as a “resounding success.” He also conveyed his best wishes for the formation of a new government and reiterated India’s commitment to work with Nepal for mutual prosperity, progress, and the well-being of the people of both countries.
Had warm telephone conversations with Mr. Rabi Lamichhane, Chairman of the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) and Mr. Balendra Shah, Senior Leader of the RSP.
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) March 9, 2026
Congratulated both leaders on their electoral victories and RSP’s resounding success in the Nepal elections. Conveyed my…
Lamichhane responded through another post on X at 10:04 PM the same day. In his reply, he thanked Modi for the message and for acknowledging what he described as the democratic mandate of the Nepali people.
“Thank you, Prime Minister @narendramodi, for your warm wishes and for recognizing the democratic mandate of the Nepali people,” Lamichhane wrote in his message.
Thank you, Prime Minister @narendramodi, for your warm wishes and for recognizing the democratic mandate of the Nepali people.
— Rabi Lamichhane (@hamrorabi) March 9, 2026
RSP and our government will remain dedicated to fostering a relationship built on mutual respect and shared prosperity where RSP will prioritize on… https://t.co/vxY0PzAdqO
He further stated that the RSP and the forthcoming government would remain committed to fostering relations with India based on mutual respect and shared prosperity. Lamichhane added that the party intends to prioritize what he called “development diplomacy” in its foreign relations approach.
“We look forward to a partnership with India that scales new heights through cooperation in connectivity, cultural tourism, energy, and trade, ensuring a prosperous future for the people of both countries,” Lamichhane said in the message.
The exchange of messages between the leaders followed the election in Nepal in which the Rastriya Swatantra Party secured majority support, and the diplomatic communication signals the beginning of engagement between the incoming leadership in Nepal and the Indian government.