Nepal’s Prime Minister, Pushpakamal Dahal ‘Prachanda’, who is currently on a four-day visit to India, called upon Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday to address the border issues between the two countries through diplomatic negotiations.
During a meeting with Modi, Prachanda emphasized the importance of resolving the border disputes through bilateral talks, as reported by the news agency. The two leaders engaged in discussions to enhance cooperation between countries in various sectors, including energy, connectivity, and trade. Speaking at a joint press conference held at Hyderabad House in Delhi, Prachanda extended a warm invitation to PM Modi to visit Nepal and expressed his anticipation for the Indian Prime Minister’s arrival.
Image Source:- ANI
Enhancing Cooperation: India and Nepal Discuss Energy, Connectivity, and Trade
PM Modi highlighted the progress made in transit agreements between India and Nepal. PM Modi announced that new railway connections had been established to enhance physical connectivity between countries. He further stated that a long-term power trade agreement between the two nations had been finalized, which would strengthen the power sectors of both countries. Emphasizing the deep-rooted and significant religious and cultural ties between both the nations, PM Modi mentioned that it had been mutually agreed upon to expedite projects related to the Ramayana Circuit to strengthen these bonds, according to ANI.
Reflecting on the past, PM Modi recalled his first visit to Nepal in 2014 and the principles he outlined to enhance bilateral relations between the two countries. “Nine years ago, during my visit, I presented a formula for India-Nepal relations – Highways, I-ways, and Trans-ways. I emphasized the establishment of robust connectivity between India and Nepal to prevent our borders from becoming barriers. Today, the Prime Minister of Nepal and I have made significant decisions to ensure our partnership flourishes in the future,” PM Modi added.
During the visit, several agreements were exchanged between countries, including the extension of a cross-border petroleum pipeline and a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Institute of Foreign Affairs Nepal and the Sushma Swaraj Institute of Foreign Service in India.
In a symbolic gesture, Prachanda and Modi jointly inaugurated checkposts at Rupaidiha in India and Nepalgunj in Nepal, virtually signaling the commitment of both countries to strengthen border security and facilitate smoother cross-border movements.
The visit of Prime Minister Prachanda to India holds immense significance in terms of strengthening the bilateral ties between the two nations. The leaders’ discussions encompassed a broad range of areas, showcasing the commitment of both countries to enhance cooperation and address mutual concerns.
The resolve to resolve border issues through bilateral talks and the exchange of agreements and memoranda signifies a positive step toward deepening the relationship between nations. As both countries continue to foster closer ties, it is expected that the partnership will thrive and bring about mutual prosperity and growth.
