PM discusses ways to strengthen bilateral ties with Nepalese counterpart

Kathmandu: Prime Minister Mr Narendra Modi met his Nepalese counterpart Mr Sushil Koirala and discussed ways to enhance bilateral cooperation in key sectors such as trade and investment, hydropower and agriculture.

Mr Modi and Mr Koirala discussed various facets of longstanding mutual relations and issues of common interest, at Singha Durbar Secretariat. Earlier, Mr Modi, who is the first Indian Prime Minister to pay a bilateral visit to Nepal in 17 years, was accorded a rousing welcome with Mr Koirala receiving him at the Tribhuvan International Airport. The Deputy Prime Ministers Mr Bam Dev Gautam (Nepal) and Mr Prakash Man Singh (India) were also present at the airport.

Nepalese Foreign Minister Mr Mahendra Pandey also paid a courtesy call on Mr Modi and briefly discussed some bilateral issues, such as hydro-power, trade, energy and security. “The talks were held in a very cordial and friendly atmosphere,” as per Mr Pandey.

Mr Modi, in a statement before his two-day trip, had said, “I am excited about my visit and pleased that I am able to go there within weeks of assuming office as Prime Minister.” He had also said that he looked forward to working with the Nepalese leadership to build a “new relationship” by identifying steps to enhance bilateral cooperation in important sectors, such as trade and investment, hydropower, agriculture and agro-processing, tourism, environment, education, culture and sports.

Disclaimer: This information has been collected through secondary research and IBEF is not responsible for any errors in the same.