Diplomats Assessing Nepal-India bilateral Relationship
Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri's Two-Day Visit to Kathmandu Reinforces India-Nepal Partnership
Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri of India is currently in Kathmandu for a two-day visit, marking another chapter in the tradition of regular high-level exchanges between the two neighbours. This visit, as stated by the Indian embassy, reflects the priority that Nepal holds under India's Neighbourhood First Policy.
During his stay, Mr. Misri met with Nepali counterpart Amrit Bahadur Rai to discuss ways to further strengthen cooperation across various sectors. The talks focused on various aspects of the Nepal-India partnership, including connectivity and development cooperation.
The meetings are to prepare for Nepal Prime Minister K.P. Sharma Oli's visit to India, which is expected to take place in the near future. This visit, as described by the Ministry of External Affairs, will provide an opportunity to further strengthen and advance bilateral relations.
Mr. Misri also called on high-level dignitaries of Nepal, including President Ramchandra Paudel and Prime Minister K.P. Sharma Oli. During his meeting with Mr. Oli, Mr. Misri reaffirmed the deep civilizational ties and strong India-Nepal partnership. The Nepal Foreign Office stated that the discussions aimed to further deepen bilateral relations.
In addition, Mr. Misri is scheduled to meet with Nepali Congress President Sher Bahadur Deuba and Communist Party of Nepal-Maoist Centre Chairman Pushpa Kamal Dahal "Prachanda."
It is important to note that this visit is not directly related to the previously mentioned discussions about Nepal-India partnership, connectivity, and development cooperation. Similarly, it is not related to the expected relief for the common man and MSMEs from next-generation GST reforms, as stated by FM Nirmala Sitharaman.
Furthermore, Premier K.P. Sharma Oli visited India in November 2018, and this current visit by Mr. Misri is not related to that meeting.
The MEA stated that this visit by Mr. Misri reaffirms the commitment to the Neighbourhood First policy, as described by the Indian embassy. The visit underscores the importance that India places on its relationship with Nepal and the ongoing efforts to strengthen and deepen this partnership.
