KATHMANDU, Oct 10: Dr Nishchal Nath Pandey, Nepal’s proposed ambassador to India, has pledged to make high-level visits between the two countries more regular and strengthen mechanisms to resolve bilateral disputes, according to an action plan submitted to the Parliamentary Hearing Committee.
The plan identifies regular high-level visits, consultations and dialogue as key tools for strengthening bilateral ties. Pandey has also referred to Prime Minister Balendra Shah’s planned visit to India, saying it is expected to take place soon, although the date has yet to be determined.
“The heads of government of both countries should periodically review the progress made by institutional mechanisms engaged in addressing challenges and promoting mutual interests,” the action plan states.
Nepal and India have several bilateral mechanisms covering trade, transit, security, connectivity and other areas of cooperation. Pandey has pledged to prepare a schedule to ensure these mechanisms function actively and effectively during his tenure.
Sticking with New Year’s resolution
Describing India as a central pillar of Nepal’s foreign policy because of geographical proximity, historical and cultural ties, the open border and close people-to-people relations, Pandey has said he will prioritize Nepal’s national interests, dignity and public sentiment.
“I will remain committed to addressing Nepal-India relations in line with our national interests and immediate and long-term needs, while placing national dignity and public sentiment above all else,” he wrote.
The government’s policies and programmes seek to shift traditional diplomacy towards economic diplomacy and promote Nepal as an international destination for information technology, innovation, education and healthcare. Pandey has pledged to mobilize foreign aid, investment and development cooperation in line with government directives and Nepal’s long-term interests.
He has also highlighted the extensive economic interdependence between the two countries, spanning trade, transit, investment, tourism, essential imports, market access for Nepali products and energy cooperation. He noted that India had supported Nepal during disasters, including earthquakes, floods, landslides and the Covid-19 pandemic.
Pandey has pledged to resolve bilateral problems through a tiered approach, starting with local officials and referring more complex issues to established mechanisms or higher authorities if necessary.
He has also proposed expanding tourism promotion and air connectivity, including regular flights to Kolkata and additional cross-border routes, as well as attracting more Indian flights to Gautam Buddha International Airport.
The plan proposes joint tourism networks linking Lumbini, Bodh Gaya and Kushinagar, as well as Janakpur and Ayodhya. Pandey has also identified a rail connection between Janakpur and Ayodhya as a priority.
Expanding road, railway, air, petroleum pipeline and electricity connections is another commitment, with the stated aim of helping Nepal benefit from India’s economic growth.
On border security, Pandey has proposed a round-the-clock information-sharing system to combat human trafficking, smuggling, drug trafficking and the circulation of counterfeit currency and goods, while retaining the open-border arrangement.
He has suggested using CCTV cameras, artificial intelligence and drones to improve surveillance and identify security risks, alongside stronger coordination between security agencies at the grassroots level. Expanding optical fibre networks and digital connectivity along the border is also part of his plan.
