External Affairs Minister S.M. Krishna arrived here on Wednesday morning on a three-day visit to hold meetings with Nepal's leadership on matters of mutual concern, including the political impasse.
Mr. Krishna told reporters at the airport: “I would like to convey to the leadership of Nepal that India is committed to working with the people of Nepal for a democratic, stable, peaceful and prosperous Nepal.” He said relations with Nepal would continue to be a matter of the highest priority for India, and that his visit was aimed to “strengthen and expand bilateral relations”. The Minister is accompanied by Foreign Secretary Nirupama Rao.
The Nepali side was led by Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Bharat Mohan Adhikari.
Nepali Foreign Secretary Madan Kumar Bhattarai told The Hindu: “The Indian side reiterated its support for the peace process and Constitution writing in Nepal. They also offered assistance in matters related to economy and trade. Both sides agreed to activate the multiple official mechanisms between the two countries and hold meetings that are pending as soon as possible, and sign agreements that have been approved by the governments.” The talks also covered contentious issues such as border strip maps, an extradition treaty, and the security concerns of both sides.
Invitation
In his meeting with Prime Minister Jhalanath Khanal, Mr. Krishna conveyed his congratulations on the formation of the new government, and reiterated a formal invitation to visit India. Mr. Khanal is learnt to have expressed his commitment to strengthening the unique relations between the two countries, and extended an invitation to Manmohan Singh to visit Nepal. Mr. Khanal briefed Mr. Krishna on efforts to conclude the peace and constitution process. “We felt that the Indian Minister's approach was very positive and he expressed his goodwill,” said Mr. Khanal's media advisor, Surya Thapa.
Mr Krishna also called on President Ram Baran Yadav, who is understood to have sought support and goodwill to strengthen democratic institutions in Nepal. Sources in the President's office said Dr. Yadav emphasised to the Indian delegation that while there were challenges, there was no alternative but to continue with the political process, implement the peace agreements and write a democratic constitution.
