New Delhi: External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar on Saturday said India and Nepal have an opportunity to give a new direction to their bilateral relationship as he held talks with Nepal’s Foreign Minister Shisir Khanal in New Delhi.
The meeting took place amid recent tensions over a border dispute involving the India-Nepal-Tibet tri-junction, but both sides emphasized cooperation and stronger engagement.
Addressing the meeting, Jaishankar said India wants to send a clear message of collaboration and partnership. He noted that both countries can work together to unlock the full potential of their relationship and build on their long-standing historical and cultural ties.
Nepal Foreign Minister Shisir Khanal also underlined Kathmandu’s commitment to strengthening relations with India. He said Nepal carries no historical baggage and is focused on building a transformative partnership with its most important neighbour.
Jaishankar highlighted the close coordination between the two countries on security matters, particularly along the open border shared by India and Nepal. He said both nations have consistently supported each other during difficult times.
Referring to the ongoing crisis in West Asia, the External Affairs Minister said India has ensured uninterrupted fuel supplies to Nepal despite global uncertainties.
Following the talks, Jaishankar shared details of the discussions on social media, stating that both sides reviewed cooperation in development projects, connectivity, energy, education, healthcare, digital initiatives, culture, sports and capacity-building programmes. He reiterated India’s commitment to working with Nepal for the prosperity and well-being of people in both countries.
During his visit, Khanal also met National Security Adviser Ajit Doval. The two leaders discussed security cooperation, border management, connectivity projects, energy corridors and trade expansion.
The discussions marked the first major bilateral engagement with Nepal Prime Minister Balen Shah’s government and are being viewed as part of India’s continued focus on its Neighbourhood First policy.
The meeting comes shortly after Nepal’s Rastriya Swatantra Party president Rabi Lamichhane visited India and met Prime Minister Narendra Modi, a move seen as part of New Delhi’s efforts to engage with Nepal’s emerging political leadership while reinforcing ties with the Himalayan nation.
