Tibetan spiritual leader Dalai Lama on Saturday congratulated Sushila Karki on being appointed as the prime minister of Nepal.

Officials said that it is rare for the Dalai Lama to congratulate a new prime minister of Nepal upon their appointment.

The Dalai Lama, who has been living in exile in Dharamsala, India, since he fled Tibet more than six decades ago, on Saturday wrote to Sushila Karki to congratulate her on being appointed the prime minister of Nepal, according to the 14th Dalai Lama’s official website.

“As you know, the Nepalese and Tibetan peoples have historically enjoyed a close relationship,” the 90-year-old said. “I am very grateful to the government and the people of Nepal for providing facilities for the rehabilitation of Tibetan refugees following their forced escape from Tibet after 1959.”

The Dalai Lama added that although the Tibetan community in Nepal is relatively small, it has been making a notable contribution towards Nepal’s economic growth.

“Over the years, there has been significant development and increasing prosperity in Nepal in all spheres of life,” he said. “Such achievements are all the more meaningful when they really improve the lives of poor and needy people.”

He concluded, “I wish you every success in fulfilling the hopes and aspirations of the people of Nepal in these challenging times. With my prayers and good wishes.”