A New Political Chapter, An Old Diplomatic Challenge for Nepal and India
Summary
Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri is in Kathmandu to prepare for Prime Minister Balen Shah’s expected visit to New Delhi and to signal the next phase of Nepal-India ties. The article highlights unresolved disputes over Kalapani and Susta, stalled infrastructure and treaty issues, and Nepal’s push for progress on trade, transit, connectivity and air routes.
Key Points
- Vikram Misri’s visit to Nepal comes ahead of Prime Minister Balen Shah’s anticipated trip to India and is expected to shape the tone of bilateral relations.
- Longstanding disputes over Kalapani, Susta, Lipulekh and the 1950 Treaty of Peace and Friendship remain unresolved, while the EPG recommendations still await implementation.
- Nepal continues to seek progress on issues including demonetized Indian currency, Fifth Freedom air rights and major projects such as the Pancheshwar Multipurpose Project.
- The article says both sides should focus on practical cooperation in hydropower, connectivity, trade, climate resilience and information technology.
