KATHMANDU, June 1: Nepal and India have reached several agreements during the ongoing visit of Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal to India, marking a significant step towards further cooperation and development.

Addressing a joint press conference at Hyderabad House on Thursday, Prime Minister Dahal extended an invitation to his Indian counterpart Modi to visit Nepal. He expressed his belief that the agreements and understanding between Nepal and India, particularly in the multilateral field, would contribute to the development and prosperity of both the nations. Dahal specifically stressed on collaboration for the production and purchase of electricity.

Similarly, Indian Prime Minister Modi assured Dahal that the long-standing border dispute between Nepal and India would be resolved. It was said that the border disputes would be definitely resolved, but the details regarding how and when that would be done were yet to be finalized. Modi reiterated the strong bond between the two countries, comparing it to the grandeur of the majestic Himalayas.

During the second day of PM Dahal’s four-day visit, seven significant agreements were signed between Nepal and India. These agreements cover various areas such as the Lower Arun project, Fukot Karnali project, Petroleum Pipeline, and Cross-Border Payment. 

Nepal and India have signed a bilateral agreement to enable financial transactions through QR code. Previously, cross-border payments could only be made through cards, but now Nepal Clearing House and the National Payment Corporation of India have agreed to connect their payment systems. This agreement was signed during the visit of Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The integration of systems will allow citizens from both the countries to make digital payments using wallets and mobile banking by scanning QR codes. 

The signing of these agreements further strengthens the bilateral relationship and cooperation between the two nations. The details of these agreements were shared by the two prime ministers during a joint press conference.

Furthermore, the Motihari-Amlekhgunj petroleum pipeline, a crucial infrastructure project, was jointly inaugurated by Prime Minister Dahal and his Indian counterpart Modi. This pipeline, aimed at facilitating the transportation of petroleum products between the two countries, holds great significance for enhancing trade and connectivity. In addition, the Integrated Check Post (ICP) at Rupaidiha-Nepalgunj was also inaugurated, serving as a gateway for efficient cross-border trade and movement of goods.

Lastly, the 17.4 km Kurtha Bathnaha-Bijalpura railway line was officially inaugurated by Prime Minister Dahal and Modi. This railway line serves as a vital transportation link, promoting connectivity and facilitating the movement of people and goods between Nepal and India.

During the joint conference, the foundation stone of the 'New Butwal-Gorakhpur International Transmission Line' was also laid. This transmission line, with a capacity of 2000 megawatts, aims to strengthen electricity trade between Nepal and India. The project, facilitated by a joint company, will enhance infrastructure for reliable and efficient energy exchange. The construction is expected to be completed within three years, providing a new highway for electricity trade.

The joint conference organized by Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal of Nepal and Prime Minister Narendra Modi of India marked an important milestone in strengthening bilateral ties and cooperation. The agreements and consents reached during this visit hold immense potential for the mutual development and progress of both the nations.

 
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