Building trust and confidence a must before going to India with a wish list, experts advise Nepali leadership
Summary
As Prime Minister Balendra Shah prepares for his India visit, experts are urging Nepal to prioritize trust-building over an extensive wish list. Kathmandu and New Delhi have discussed trade, infrastructure, energy, aviation and a proposed $2 billion assistance package.
Key Points
- Observers say Nepal should focus on restoring political trust and confidence with India rather than carrying a long list of demands to New Delhi.
- India’s Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri held talks in Kathmandu on the agenda for Prime Minister Balendra Shah’s first official bilateral visit since taking office.
- Nepal has proposed a $2 billion package, revision of the trade treaty, additional port access, infrastructure projects, rupee-denominated loans and new air and rail links.
- Officials from both countries also discussed cooperation on AI, IIT/IIM branches, hydropower, pipelines and the Janakpur-Ayodhya rail route.
