FM calls for redesigning Nepal-India relations

KATHMANDU, March 29: Minister for Foreign Affairs Pradip Gyawali has said that the bilateral relations between Nepal and India should be redefined and redesigned from the perspective of mutual economic benefits. 

“All the high-level exchanges between the two neighbors will be solely aimed at deepening relations to make these suitable to the need of the hour, which is economic development. It is necessary to redefine and redesign the bilateral relations from the perspective of mutual economic benefits,” he said at a function organized by Nepal-India Friendship Society in the capital ahead of the prime minister's visit to India. Prime Minister KP Oli is all set to begin his foreign trip as the new prime minister of Nepal from India from the first week of April.

He said that there was no alternative to developing cordial bilateral ties between Nepal and India based on equality and mutual understanding, which will contribute to the welfare of both the countries. “Nepal and India are close friends. Given the close relations, it is natural for some frictions to appear sometimes. But history has taught us a lesson that there is no alternative to promoting cordial relations based on equality,” he added. 

He said that suggestions made by Nepal-India Eminent Persons Group will help redefine and redesign the bilateral relations in a way so as to help mutual economic growth.  “Our foreign policy will be guided by country's core interests and economic development,” he added. 

Stating that Nepal is a virgin land for investment, Minister Gyawali also urged foreign investors to invest in Nepal. “The new government is eager to welcome foreign investments on sectors like hydropower, clean energy, tourism, agriculture and infrastructures. The government is working to introduce one-step service to attract foreign investments as well as take other initiatives to make investment-friendly environment,” he added.  

At the function, many other speakers said that Prime Minister Oli should hold talks with Indian side during his India visit for setting up special economic zones near Nepal-India border. 

Indian Ambassador to Nepal Manjeev Singh Puri was also present on the occasion.