Foreign Minister Shisir Khanal pitches new chapter in Nepal-India ties
Summary
Foreign Minister Shisir Khanal emphasized a new pragmatic chapter in Nepal-India ties focused on cooperation in energy, connectivity, and education during his visit to India.
Key Points
- Foreign Minister Shisir Khanal visited India aiming to reset Nepal-India relations based on pragmatism and mutual growth.
- He acknowledged Nepal's economic stagnation compared to India's rapid growth and attributed it to domestic political instability.
- Khanal outlined five priority areas: energy cooperation, connectivity infrastructure, digital payments, education, and technology collaboration.
- Plans include a tripartite energy agreement with India and Bangladesh, new rail and air links, cross-border digital payments, and potential IIT or AIIMS campuses in Nepal.