KATHMANDU, Dec 7: Former Deputy National Security Advisor of India, Ambassador Pankaj Saran, emphasized India's role as a natural partner for Nepal, stressing the mutual interdependence of the two countries. He urged all segments of society, especially intellectuals and opinion leaders, to actively preserve and promote this crucial relationship rather than relying solely on the governments.

Ambassador Saran made these remarks at an event organized to release a Special Report on Nepal-India relations, jointly published by Indian thinktank NatStrat and Nepali thinktank NIICE. Reflecting on Nepal's transformation since becoming a republic, he noted that political stability could accelerate Nepal's progress. Additionally, he suggested that Nepal explore opportunities to benefit from India's projected economic growth by selling hydropower to India by 2030.

The Special Report, featuring contributions from six Indian and six Nepali experts, was unveiled by former Defense Minister Dr. Minendra Rijal and former Industry Minister Sunil Bahadur Thapa. Ambassador Pankaj Saran, the Convenor of NatStrat, and Dr. Pramod Jaiswal, the Director of NIICE, were also part of the release event.

During the discussion, Anurag Acharya highlighted the importance of Nepal negotiating with India to secure greater access to its energy market and to facilitate trade with Bangladesh.

 
• Deputy_National_Security_Advisor_of_India
 
• Ambassador_Pankaj_Saran