Prime Minister Balen Shah's India Visit Preparations Underway, Private Sector Seeks Economic Diplomacy
Summary
Preparations are underway for Prime Minister Balen Shah’s visit to India, with the private sector urging the government to prioritize economic diplomacy, trade facilitation and investment promotion. Business leaders want the visit to address jute export barriers, hydropower investment, rail and air connectivity, and implementation of long-pending agreements.
Key Points
- Preparations are underway for Prime Minister Balen Shah’s November 23–25 visit to India, with private sector representatives expected to join at their own expense.
- Industrialists want the visit to focus on economic diplomacy, especially resolving trade barriers, reducing India’s anti-dumping duty on jute products, and attracting Indian investment.
- The government is finalizing an agenda that includes a proposed $2 billion economic assistance package, the Butwal-Pokhara Expressway, rail and air connectivity, and a review of the trade treaty.
- Private sector leaders also want discussions on hydropower exports, transmission infrastructure, and direct rail and air links to improve Nepal-India connectivity.
