Security officials from both countries, during a home secretary-level meeting that concluded in New Delhi on Tuesday, concluded that the activities of such “elements” are inimical to the security interests of both countries. [break]
“Both sides expressed concern over the activities of religious fundamentalist groups along the Nepal-India border and their potential links with terrorist groups, and stressed the need for greater cooperation and information-sharing between the relevant agencies of both countries to mitigate this threat,” reads the 30-point agreement reached at the end of the meeting.
During the two-day meeting, officials from the two countries discussed the movement of terrorists, the proliferation of madrassas, fake Indian currency, human trafficking and border issues.
According to the minutes of the agreement obtained by Republica, Nepal and India stressed the need for further cooperation and intelligence sharing to combat trans-border crimes like terrorism, arms smuggling, human trafficking and smuggling of fake currencies as well as narcotic and psychotropic substances, and agreed to enhance all ongoing efforts.
On combating the smuggling of fake Indian currency, the two countries agreed to initiate a capacity-building program for law enforcement agencies.
In addition, the two sides also discussed the agreement between India and Nepal on Mutual Legal Assistance in Criminal Activities and the Revised Extradition Treaty between India and Nepal. The two sides noted that these treaties are awaiting final signature.
The officials also discussed the misuse of SIM cards by criminals and decided to apprise the concerned authorities of the need to strengthen the guidelines for the issuance and use of SIM cards.
The Indian officials expressed concern over anti-India “propaganda” by FM radio stations along the border. In response, Nepali officials said they would address the concern through strict enforcement of existing broadcast laws.
The security officials also discussed problems faced by Nepalis returning home from India and the southern neighbor assured Nepali officials that they would take necessary steps, including possibly establishing currency exchange facilities in border areas.
Similarly, both sides agreed to finalize a memorandum of understanding on setting up a Police Academy in Panauti, with necessary adjustments or clarifications if any.
Nepal’s Home Secretary Sushil Jung Bahadur Rana led the Nepali side while Indian Home Secretary RK Singh led the Indian side during the meeting.
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