Indian Minister for External Affairs Sushma Swaraj, center, pays respect near the body of former PM Sushil Koirala. -AP

External affairs minister Sushma Swaraj-led all-party delegation Tuesday paid homage to former Nepalese Prime Minister Sushil Koirala here, saying India has lost a “true friend”. Members of the high-level delegation comprising Congress leader Anand Sharma, JD(U) president Sharad Yadav, CPI(M) general secretary Sitaram Yechury and national security adviser Ajit Doval paid their last respects to Koirala.

“Sad demise of former Prime Minister of Nepal and leader of Nepali Congress has deeply saddened the leadership, government and the people of India. A dedicated leader, Sushil ji was a man of high thinking and simple living,” the delegation’s message in the condolence book read. “Nepal’s crucial political transition was successfully concluded under his stewardship. On behalf of the people and government of India, we convey our heartfelt condolences. India has today lost a true friend,” it said.