JANAKPURDHAM, May 1: Minister for Home Affairs, Ram Bahadur Thapa, Tuesday shared that Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit on May 9 will be ‘religious and cultural’.

Home Minister Thapa revealed the visit’s status during a press conference which followed his onsite tours to Janaki temple – where Modi will be holding religious worship rituals and prayers – and the public felicitation venue at the Bahra Bigaha area.

Elaborating further on the visit itinerary, Thapa shared that Indian PM Modi will also be visiting the Muktinath temple. Minister Thapa added that Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli will also be arriving in Janakpurdham during the visit by Indian PM Modi.

The Home Affairs Minister made it clear that there will be no programs for political agreements this time around during the Indian premier’s visit.

Answering a question from a journalist, Home Minister Thapa said Indian PM Modi’s security responsibility rested with the country and promised high security arrangement.

He also expressed confidence that Indian PM’s visit would help strengthen the religious and cultural relations between the two countries. RSS

KATHMANDU, April 23: Ambassador of India to Nepal Manjeev Singh Puri has reached Janakpur to make necessary preparations for Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Nepal.

Even though date and itinerary of Modi’s visit has not been confirmed by both sides, Modi is likely to visit Nepal around mid-May, according to sources.

Sources have also suggested that Indian PM Modi will also visit Janakpurdham and Muktinath temple during his trip.

Ambassador Puri reached in Janakpur on Sunday and held meeting with Province 2 Chief Minister Lal Babu Raut. According to CM Raut, they discussed about the preparation for Modi’s visit to Janakpur.

KATHMANDU, April 18: Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is likely to visit Nepal on May 11, according to Hindustani times.

We have been preparing to fix Modi’s visit on May 11,” said an official at foreign ministry, as the Times reported.

Modi is also expected to travel to Janakpur during his Nepal visit. Modi was supposed to visit Janakpur in November 2014, when he came to Nepal to attend the SAARC summit. However, it could not materialize.

The times further said reporting an official at the Nepal government, “We have been asked to make preparations for his (Modi’s) Janakpur visit. It has been long due.”

However, Onlinekhabar has reported that officials at the foreign ministry are preparing to fix Modi’s Nepal visit from May 25-30.

“The date could be slightly up or down as talks with Indian side is still on,” Onlinekhabar reported.

This will be Modi’s third trip to Nepal in his tenure. Modi’s visit comes a month after Prime Minister K P Sharma Oli made his first official overseas trip to India on April 6-8.

KATHMANDU, April 7: Prime Minister K P Sharma Oli has met Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the Hyderabad House, New Delhi on Saturday.

The two prime ministers, during the informal closed door meeting, had a fruitful discussion to expand bilateral ties in all areas, especially in developmental cooperation, trade & investment, agriculture, energy, connectivity & people-to-people contacts.

Following the meeting a delegation level talks has started in the Hyderabad House, According to Ministry of Foreign Affairs Nepal.

KATHMANDU, March 22: Prime Minister K P Sharma Oli is likely to embark his first overseas trip, after assuming office on February 15, to India in the second week of April, according to a source from Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

“Both sides have engaged in talks regarding Prime Minister Oli’s visit to India. He will probably pay his first diplomatic visit in the second week of April. But the date has not been fixed yet,” Minister for Foreign Affairs, Pradip Gyawali told Reporters’ Club Nepal on Thursday.

After Oli was appointed Prime Minister of Nepal, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, through a telephone conversation, had congratulated Oli and invited him to India.

Oli had visited India from February 18-26, 2016 during his first term as Prime Minister.

RISHI DHAMALA:  Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba, during his five-day state visit to India, has become successful in winning the trust of his counterpart Narendra Modi. The Indian government placed PM Deuba’s visit as of high significance. PM Deuba had embarked on a trip to India on August 23 at the invitation of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Within a few hours of his arrival in the Indian capital, Indian Prime Minister Modi called on a ‘surprise warm-up’ meeting with PM Deuba. And, the 30 minutes long one-to-one talk between the two visiting head of the state is a matter of great significance from any diplomatic point of view; and it has already gestured towards producing extraordinary outcomes.

After Deuba raised the issue of constitution amendment in Delhi following his bilateral meeting with Modi, it provoked a number of harsh criticisms in Nepal from the opposition parties and even the ruling partner CPN (Maoist Center) questioning the supremacy of Nepal’s sovereignty and parliament. Also, the understanding on expediting of DPR of the Koshi high dam construction at the back of the fresh memories of devastating floods and landslides in southern plains also invited anger among Nepali people.

Despite this, his India visit can be taken as of huge success as it was focused on strengthening of relations and expansion of development cooperation and connectivity thereby enhancing economic and diplomatic ties.

Experts analyze that India is aware of Nepal’s increasing bilateral alliance with economic powerhouse China. In this backdrop, it was Indian PM Modi’s strategic move to develop closer ties with Nepal’s top political leaders in his hand.

Although four prime ministers of Nepal have paid courtesy visit to India, since Modi became prime minister in 2014, Deuba was the first after the then Prime Minister Girija Prasad Koirala to receive special welcome at his arrival at Indira Ghandi International Airport when he was welcomed by the then Indian PM Dr Manamohan Singn in 2063 BS.

Indian Minister of External Affairs Sushma Swaraj herself received Deuba giving a message of special respect and significance. After Koirala, numerous prime ministers from Nepal had India visits but failed to receive such accolade.

PM Deuba also called on Indian President, Vice-president and other top leaders of India during his visit. His counterpart Modi called on Deuba twice. He invited PM Deuba at the former’s official residence and held a meeting a day prior to scheduled meeting. Although the meeting was informal in nature, such meetings added to the cordiality of the relations among them. The meeting helped boost the bilateral relations and cement the mutual trust—clearing any misunderstandings and strains between the two sides.

A joint press conference was organized after the bilateral talks. The 46-points joint press release was focused on the effective implementation of past accords made so far between Nepal and India and the future projects.

Deuba clearly raised the issues of national interest during the meeting. Modi also expressed his happiness about Deuba’s proposals. The important achievements of the bilateral visit was the understanding to expedite the detailed project report (DPR) of the Pancheshwor Multipurpose Project, electricity supply from India to end the load shedding in Nepal, cooperation in the sub-regional, regional and international forums for development and promotion of two countries’ cultural relations and necessary support from India for the national pride projects declared by the Nepal government.

Deuba also raised the issue of constitution amendment in Delhi and expressed his commitment to amend constitution to make it acceptable to all the communities. Although it evoked angered criticism from opposition parties in Nepal, it shows Deuba’s is gaining support from international communities to direct Nepal in the path of constitution implementation and political stability. It may be noted that Indian PM Modi has always mentioned that Nepal’s constitution should be inclusive and represent the voice of all people and communities of Nepal.

The disgruntled Rastriya Janata Party Nepal also registered at the Election Commission for the upcoming elections while PM Deuba was in India visit—thanks to Deuba’s tactical ability which finally persuaded the disgruntled sides to come abroad the election process. Indian PM Modi also congratulated Deuba for successfully holding local level elections and pledged any kind support in the process of constitution implementation.

One of the most significant achievements of this visit is: Deuba’s invitation to Indian PM for laying foundation stone to the much awaited Arun III project. Indian PM Modi has also expressed his wish to visit Nepal again. He had visited Nepal in 2014. His another visit to Nepal will prove another milestone for both the countries in strengthening diplomatic ties and moving forward in the path of peace and prosperity.

Indian PM Modi has always given high emphasis on infrastructure development in Nepal. He wants to establish connectivity between the two countries through railway construction and accelerate the Postal Highway construction. Concrete measures for the proper utilization of water resources are also the agendas of top priority.

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs Krishna Bahadru Mahara’s role was very important in making Deub’s visit successful. Likewise, Indian Ambassador to Nepal Manjiv Singh Puri has also remained very much successful in developing positive diplomatic ties between the two countries.

India-Nepal Joint Statement during the State Visit of Prime Minister of Nepal to India (23-27 August 2017)

• The Rt. Hon’ble Mr. Sher Bahadur Deuba, Prime Minister of Nepal, and Dr. Arzu Rana Deuba, are on a State visit to India from August 23-27, 2017, at the invitation of Prime Minister of India, Shri Narendra Modi. The delegation includes Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs of Nepal Mr. Krishna Bahadur Mahara, Minister for Finance of Nepal Mr. Gyanendra Bahadur Karki, Minister for Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation of Nepal Mr. Jitendra Narayan Dev, Minister for Commerce of Nepal Mr. Meen Bahadur Bishwakarma, Members of Legislature-Parliament of Nepal and other senior officials of the Government of Nepal
• The Prime Minister of Nepal was accorded a ceremonial reception at the forecourt of Rashtrapati Bhavan on August 24, 2017. He paid respects and tribute to the memory of Mahatma Gandhi at Rajghat. The Prime Minister of Nepal called on Hon’ble President of India, Shri Ram Nath Kovind, and Hon’ble Vice President of India, Shri M. Venkaiah Naidu. External Affairs Minister of India Smt. Sushma Swaraj, Minister of Finance Shri. Arun Jaitley called on the Prime Minister of Nepal
• Prime Minister of Nepal interacted with Indian business community at a function jointly hosted by ASSOCHAM, CII, and FICCI, and will deliver an address at a think-tank in New Delhi. Apart from his official engagements in New Delhi, Prime Minister of Nepal will also visit Hyderabad, Tirupati and Bodhgaya.
• The two Prime Ministers held comprehensive talks on all aspects of bilateral relationship. The talks were held in an atmosphere of utmost cordiality and warmth that have characterized the close and friendly relations between India and Nepal. An official banquet was hosted by Prime Minister of India in honour of the visiting dignitary and his delegation.

Broadening partnership through high-level exchanges

• The Prime Minister of India thanked Prime Minister of Nepal for accepting his invitation and warmly welcomed him to India on his first visit abroad since assuming office in June 2017. This is Prime Minister Deuba’s landmark fourth visit to India as the Prime Minister of Nepal and holds special significance as it is taking place in the 70th year of establishment of India-Nepal diplomatic relations. The Prime Minister of Nepal congratulated the Government and people of India on marking the completion of 70th year of India’s Independence. He thanked Prime Minister of India for the warm invitation and hospitality extended to him and his delegation. He stated that his visit to India demonstrates the importance that the Government of Nepal attaches to good neighbourly relations with India.
• The Prime Minister of India, on behalf of people and Government of India, conveyed deepest condolences and sympathies to people and Government of Nepal on loss of precious lives and damage to property and infrastructure as a result of floods in Nepal. He conveyed that India stands ready to provide all possible relief assistance to Nepal. The Prime Minister of Nepal thanked Government of India for its support to relief efforts of Nepal. He also expressed deepest condolences and sympathies on the loss of lives and damage to property and infrastructure on the Indian side.
• The two Prime Ministers appreciated the regular exchange of high-level visits that have given a new momentum in taking the bilateral cooperation agenda forward. They appreciated the regular meetings of sector specific bilateral mechanisms across diverse sectors of cooperation. The two Prime Ministers welcomed the visits of Members of Legislature-Parliament of Nepal to India and expressed hope to see increased frequency of such engagements between the two parliaments.
• The two Prime Ministers expressed satisfaction over the excellent state of India-Nepal relations that are deep, comprehensive and multi-faceted. They pledged to pursue new opportunities to further deepen bilateral relations for the benefit of the peoples of both countries, while committing to further reinvigorate the existing mechanisms. The two Prime Ministers reaffirmed their commitment to work towards strengthening bilateral relations on the basis of mutual trust, goodwill, mutual benefit, with due regard to each other’s aspirations, sensitivities and interests.
• The two Prime Ministers underlined the indispensability of democratic institutions for peace, development and prosperity. The Prime Minister of Nepal shared with the Prime Minister of India the recent political developments in Nepal. The Prime Minister of India welcomed the successful conduct of two phases of local level elections and congratulated the Prime Minister of Nepal for this achievement. He appreciated the efforts being made by the Government of Nepal to take all sections of society on board in constitution implementation process and in establishing Nepal as a federal, democratic republic. The Prime Minister of Nepal thanked the Prime Minister of India for the assistance provided for the conduct of local level elections in Nepal.
• The two Prime Ministers expressed satisfaction on the progress made by the Eminent Persons Group on Nepal-India Relations in their four meetings since its establishment in February 2016. They hoped that the Group would submit its report within its mandated period, suggesting measures to further expand the close and multifaceted ties between the two countries, in accordance with its Terms of Reference, including any recommendations on review of past bilateral treaties.

Strengthening defense and security cooperation

• The two Prime Ministers expressed satisfaction over the ongoing defence cooperation and committed to further enhancing close cooperation between the Indian Army and the Nepal Army. Prime Minister of Nepal thanked the Government of India for continued assistance in training and capacity building of the security forces of Nepal.
• The two Prime Ministers expressed satisfaction at the excellent cooperation on security-related matters. The two sides expressed commitment to ensure that the open border, a unique feature of India-Nepal bilateral relations that has facilitated unhindered movement of people on both sides of the border, is not misused by unscrupulous elements posing security threat to either side. The two sides reiterated their commitment that their respective territories would not be allowed to be used for any activities inimical to the other.

Partnership for sustainable development

• The two Prime Ministers expressed satisfaction on the functioning of the ‘Oversight Mechanism’ established in 2016, and the progress made through the mechanism in resolving bottlenecks and speeding up implementation of ongoing projects under bilateral economic and development cooperation.
• The Prime Minister of India reiterated India’s commitment to work with the Government of Nepal to expedite post-earthquake reconstruction projects in a time-bound manner. The two Prime Ministers expressed satisfaction at the finalization of modalities for implementation as well as identification of projects in the four identified sectors for India’s reconstruction assistance. It was agreed to identify at the earliest projects under the US$ 750 million Line of Credit for post-earthquake reconstruction.
• The two Prime Ministers noted with satisfaction utilization of the two Lines of Credit of US$ 100 million and US$ 250 million for development of roads and power infrastructure in Nepal. The two Prime Ministers welcomed the allocation of US$ 200 million for irrigation projects, and US$ 330 million for development of roads from LoC of US$ 550 million.
• The two Prime Ministers urged a constructive pursuit of a forward-looking development agenda wherein each country could learn from and contribute to the social and economic initiatives of a transformative nature. Towards this objective, it was agreed to initiate an annual policy dialogue between the NITI Aayog of India and the National Planning Commission of Nepal. Enhancing cross-border connectivity through infrastructure development.
• The two Prime Ministers shared the view that enhanced connectivity between India and Nepal will increase people-to-people contacts as well as promote economic growth. The two Prime Ministers reviewed the progress made in the implementation of bilateral connectivity projects. Both sides recognized the need for early completion of two ongoing cross-border rail-link projects: (a) Jayanagar-Bijalpur-Bardibas and (b) Jogbani-Biratnagar rail-links. The two Prime Ministers noted with satisfaction that the railway line from Jayanagar to Janakpur and from Jogbani to Biratnagar Custom Yard will be completed by 2018. The Nepali side committed to resolve all issues for expeditious completion of both the projects.
• The two Prime Ministers underlined the importance of rail links in India-Nepal connectivity as these links will usher in growth and development by way of enhanced trade and tourism links.The two Prime Ministers also agreed on early completion of the Field Location Survey of remaining three cross-border rail links (a) New Jalpaiguri to Kakarbhitta, (b) Nautanwa to Bhairahawa, and (c) Nepalgunj Road to Nepalgunj.
• The two Prime Ministers welcomed the award of work of Integrated Check Post (ICP) at Biratnagar and directed their respective officials to pursue its construction and operationalize ICP Birgunj by December 2017. The two Prime Ministers underlined the need for early approval of Detailed Engineering Designs of ICPs at Bhairahawa and Nepalgunj.
• The two Prime Ministers expressed satisfaction on the award of contract for twelve packages under nine roads, totalling about 240 kms, under the Terai Roads project. The Nepali side assured to resolve expeditiously all encumbrances relating to land acquisition, forest clearances and removal of utility services for early completion of the project.
• The two Prime Ministers noted with satisfaction the progress in the construction of dharamshala at the Pashupatinath temple complex. They expressed hope that the work on the dharamshala and Nepal-Bharat Maitri Polytechnic at Hetauda would be expedited.
• The Prime Minister of Nepal conveyed that the Government of Nepal considers the Motihari-Amlekhgunj petroleum pipeline project a priority project. The two Prime Ministers welcomed the finalization of Detailed Engineering Route Survey and Engineering Design reports of the project. They directed the concerned officials to expeditiously remove all bottlenecks, including Right of Way, land acquisition, environmental and regulatory clearances, so that the construction work could begin at the earliest.
• The Prime Ministers welcomed the decision to set up a Joint Working Group on cooperation in oil and gas sectors, which would consider advancing cooperation in areas such as (a) construction of LPG pipeline from Motihari to Amlekhgunj; (b) construction of Natural Gas pipeline from Gorakhpur to Sunwal; c) assistance of IOCL for preparing DPR for extension of Petroleum Products pipeline from Amlekhgunj to Chitwan in Nepal.

Cooperation in projects of national priority for Nepal

• In response to the Prime Minister of Nepal highlighting priority projects for Nepal’s growth and development, the Prime Minister of India underlined that India stands ready to provide economic and development cooperation assistance. The two sides reached in principle agreement for Indian grant assistance to support the establishment of Technical Institute in Far West of Nepal, and the GP Koirala National Centre for Respiratory Diseases in Tanahun. In addition, the two Prime Ministers agreed that their Governments would hold discussions to explore the feasibility of cooperation on mutually agreed basis on the following projects:
  1. Kushinagar-Lumbini-Kapilavastu and Bardibas-Birgunj Railways
  2. Up gradation of Birgunj-Pathlaiya-Narayanghat and Butwal-Pokhara roads into express ways
  3. International Airport at Nijgadh
  4. Motorable Bridges on Mahakali River
  5. Maitri Bridge at Birgunj-Raxaul border
  6. Development of dry port at Dodhara Chandani
  7. Developing a Special Economic Zone in Nepal
  8. Development of new 132 kV transmission lines
  9. Butwal (Nepal)-Gorakhpur (India) cross-border transmission line
  10. Lumki (Nepal)-Bareilly (India) cross-border transmission line
  11. Harnessing water resources and expanding energy cooperation
• The two Prime Ministers, noting the positive and productive discussion on the Pancheshwar Multipurpose Project, directed the concerned officials to finalize its Detailed Project Report within a month.
• The Prime Minister of Nepal reiterated the commitment of Government of Nepal to address all pending issues on priority relating to 900 MW Arun-III and Upper Karnali hydropower projects, in accordance with the project development agreements.
• The Indian side conveyed the finalization of Detailed Project Report for the construction of head regulator and link canal from Tanakpur Barrage to the Nepali side.
• The two Prime Ministers welcomed the recent meeting of specialized committees in water resources, including the Joint Committee on Inundation and Flood Management, and the Joint Team of Experts. They expressed the hope that these meetings would enhance bilateral cooperation in water resources in areas such as irrigation, flood management and river training works. The two Prime Ministers agreed that the work on preparation of the Detailed Project Report for the Sapt-Kosi high dam and Sun-Kosi storage cum diversion scheme be expedited. The two sides also agreed to strengthen coordination and consultation on the pressing matter of inundation and flood management in the border areas. In this regard, it was agreed to take expeditious steps, including joint visits, to consider appropriate measures for sustainable solution.
• The two Prime Ministers noted with satisfaction that the meetings of the Joint Steering Committee and Joint Working Group on Power are being regularly held and appreciated the recent steps taken by both sides to enhance supply of power from India to Nepal, including operationalization of Muzaffarpur-Dhalkebar, Kataiya-Kusaha and Raxaul-Parwanipur cross-border transmission lines. The Prime Minister of Nepal thanked Prime Minister of India for swift action by Indian entities to install an additional transformer at Muzaffarpur sub-station for supplying additional power to Nepal from Muzaffarpur-Dhalkebar transmission line in January 2017. The Prime Minister of India assured that the Government of India will be responsive to future request for power from Government of Nepal.
• It was agreed that both sides will continue to take measures to operationalize all aspects of the Power Trade Agreement signed in 2014. The two Prime Ministers appreciated the efforts of both sides in preparing a Master Plan for the cross-border interconnection for the period until 2035.

Scaling up trade and investment links

• The two Prime Ministers highlighted the importance of realizing the full potential of bilateral trade and investment. They welcomed the renewal of the India-Nepal Treaty of Trade and the Agreement of Cooperation between Government of India and Government of Nepal to Control Unauthorized Trade, in October 2016, for further period of seven years.
• The Prime Minister of Nepal expressed concern over Nepal’s growing trade deficit with India. Noting the current level of bilateral trade, the two Prime Ministers underscored that there is a considerable potential to enhance the bilateral trade, which could be harnessed by addressing infrastructural deficiencies and trade restricting measures as well as by adopting trade facilitation measures for easier market access to agricultural and industrial products. Both sides agreed to cooperate towards strengthening testing and certifying laboratories, establishing quarantine facilities and harmonizing standards.
• Both Prime Ministers also agreed on early conclusion of the Letters of Exchange for transit of bulk cargo to Nepal using multi-modal transport, movement of traffic in transit via Nepal and on amendment to Rail Services Agreement. Both sides agreed to take steps for early upgradation and operationalization of the agreed trade points namely Dhangadhi-Gauriphanta, Guleria-Murthia, Jatahi-Pipraun and Pashupatinagar-Sukhiapokhri. The two sides also agreed that issues relating to impact of introduction of Goods and Service Tax in India on bilateral and transit trade be examined expeditiously. It was agreed that the next meeting of the Inter-Governmental Committee on trade, transit and control of unauthorized trade at the Secretary level will be held by end-2017, to discuss all trade and transit related issues with an objective to facilitate bilateral and transit trade.
• The two Prime Ministers emphasized the need for channelizing more direct investments from India into Nepal. The Prime Minister of Nepal shared information on the recent steps taken by Government of Nepal to spur economic reforms with the aim of enhancing investor confidence in his country.

Consolidating cultural links and promoting people to people ties

• On B.P. Koirala India-Nepal Foundation completing 25 years of establishment in December 2016, the two Prime Ministers appreciated the contribution made by the Foundation in cementing people-to-people ties and acknowledged the immense goodwill that the activities of the Foundation have generated at people’s level on both sides.
• The two Prime Ministers noted with satisfaction that the bus services between Kathmandu-Delhi, Kathmandu-Varanasi, Mahendranagar-New Delhi and Pokhara-New Delhi are operational. It was agreed that the Joint Working Group on Cross-Border Transport Facilitation will meet early to address operational issues for existing and additional routes.
• The two Prime Ministers stressed the need for taking forward the cooperation in the fields of tourism and Ayurvedic system of health care. In this regard, both sides agreed to take steps to fully implement the MoUs on Cooperation in Traditional Medicine and on Tourism Cooperation, including the development of pilgrim circuits. The two Prime Ministers hoped that the next meetings of the Joint Working Groups on Tourism, Civil Aviation and Transport Facilitation would be convened at the earliest to carry forward the cooperation to facilitate cultural and tourism links.
• Both Prime Ministers directed their respective officials to finalize the MoU between the Pashupati Area Development Trust and the Archaeological Survey of India for reconstruction and renovation work.

Working together in international, regional and sub-regional fora

• The two Prime Ministers emphasized the advantages of cooperation at regional and sub-regional level, including BIMSTEC and SAARC. As the current Chair, the Prime Minister of Nepal thanked Prime Minister of India for the BIMSTEC Leaders’ Retreat hosted by India in Goa in October 2016 along with the BRICS-BIMSTEC Outreach Summit. The two Prime Ministers welcomed the renewed momentum for cooperation within the BIMSTEC framework, which is observing its 20th anniversary this year.
• The two Prime Ministers welcomed the successful launch of the South Asia Satellite as a unique example of regional cooperation in space sector, and an initiative that would touch the lives of people in the region through space technology applications in the areas of telecommunication and broadcasting, tele-medicine, tele-education, e-governance, banking and ATM services, meteorological data transmission, disaster response and networking of academic and research institutions.
• The two Prime Ministers acknowledged that India and Nepal have been working together in the United Nations and other international fora to advance cause of common interest. The Prime Minister of Nepal reiterated Nepal’s support for India’s candidature for permanent membership of the UN Security Council.
• Recognizing that terrorism remains one of the most significant threats to peace and stability in the region, the two Prime Ministers reiterated their strong commitment to combat terrorism in all its forms and manifestations. They called on the international community for early finalization and adoption of a Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism by the UNGA.

Agreements/MoUs signed

• The two Prime Ministers witnessed the exchange of the following documents on August 24:i. MoU on Modalities for Utilization of India’s Housing Grant Component to support Reconstruction of 50,000 Houses
  MoU on Implementation of the Grant Component of India’s Post-Earthquake Reconstruction Package in the Education Sector in Nepal
  iii. MoU on Implementation of the Grant Component of India’s Post-Earthquake Reconstruction Package in Cultural Heritage Sector in Nepal
  iv. MoU on Implementation of the Grant Component of India’s Post-Earthquake Reconstruction Package in the Health Sector in Nepal
  v. Cooperation Agreement between Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) & Nepal Bureau of Standards & Metrology
  vi. MoU on Drug Demand Reduction and Prevention of Illicit Trafficking in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances and Precursor Chemical and Related Matters
  vii. MoU for construction of Mechi bridge
  viii. MoU between Institute of Chartered Accountants of India and Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nepal
• The two Prime Ministers jointly inaugurated the Kataiya (India)-Kusaha (Nepal) and Raxaul (India)-Parwanipur (Nepal) cross-border transmission lines, which would enable additional 100 MWs of power supply from India to Nepal.
• The two Prime Ministers agreed that the visit will provide further impetus to strengthening the age-old bonds of friendship between the people of India and Nepal and help advance the mutually beneficial multi-dimensional ties to the next level.
• The Prime Minister of Nepal extended an invitation to the Prime Minister of India to pay a visit to Nepal. The Prime Minister of India accepted the invitation and it was agreed that the visit would take place at mutually convenient dates.

NEW DELHI, Aug 25: Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba and Prime Minister of India Narendra Modi have expressed satisfaction over the excellent state of India-Nepal relations that are deep, comprehensive and multi-faceted.

They also pledged to pursue new opportunities to further deepen bilateral relations for the benefit of the peoples of both countries, while committing to further reinvigorate the existing mechanisms.

In a joint statement issued on the occasion of the state visit of Prime Minister Deuba to India, the two Prime Ministers reaffirmed their commitment to work towards strengthening bilateral relations on the basis of mutual trust, goodwill, mutual benefit, with due regard to each other’s aspirations, sensitivities and interests.

The two Prime Ministers appreciated the regular exchange of high-level visits that have given a new momentum in taking the bilateral cooperation agenda forward and appreciated the regular meetings of sector specific bilateral mechanisms across diverse sectors of cooperation.

The two Prime Ministers expressed satisfaction on the progress made by the Eminent Persons Group on Nepal-India Relations in their four meetings since its establishment in February 2015.

They hoped that the Group would submit its report within its mandated period, suggesting measures to further expand the close and multifaceted ties between the two countries, in accordance with its Terms of Reference, including any recommendations on review of past bilateral treaties, it is stated in the joint statement.

In the area of strengthening defense and security cooperation, the two Prime Ministers expressed satisfaction over the ongoing defense cooperation and committed to further enhancing close cooperation between the Indian Army and the Nepal Army.

Prime Minister Deuba thanked the Government of India for continued assistance in training and capacity building of the security forces of Nepal.

The two Prime Ministers also expressed satisfaction at the excellent cooperation on security-related matters.

The two sides expressed commitment to ensure that the open border, a unique feature of India-Nepal bilateral relations that has facilitated unhindered movement of people on both sides of the border, is not misused by unscrupulous elements posing security threat to either side.

The two sides reiterated their commitment that their respective territories would not be allowed to be used for any activities inimical to the other.

Highlighting the need for partnership for sustainable development, the two leaders expressed satisfaction on the functioning of the ‘Oversight Mechanism’ established in 2016, and the progress made through the mechanism in resolving bottlenecks and speeding up implementation of ongoing projects under bilateral economic and development cooperation.

The Prime Minister of India reiterated India’s commitment to work with the Government of Nepal to expedite post-earthquake reconstruction projects in a time-bound manner. The two Prime Ministers expressed satisfaction at the finalization of modalities for implementation as well as identification of projects in the four identified sectors for India’s reconstruction assistance.

It was agreed to identify at the earliest projects under the US$ 750 million Line of Credit for post-earthquake reconstruction.

They also noted with satisfaction utilization of the two Lines of Credit of US$ 100 million and US$ 250 million for development of roads and power infrastructure in Nepal.

The two Prime Ministers welcomed the allocation of US$ 200 million for irrigation projects, and US$ 330 million for development of roads from LoC of US$ 550 million.

The two Prime Ministers urged a constructive pursuit of a forward-looking development agenda wherein each country could learn from and contribute to the social and economic initiatives of a transformative nature.

Towards this objective, it was agreed to initiate an annual policy dialogue between the NITI Aayog of India and the National Planning Commission of Nepal.

Enhancing cross-border connectivity through infrastructure development
Moreover, the two Prime Ministers shared the view that enhanced connectivity between India and Nepal would increase people-to-people contacts and promote economic growth. They reviewed the progress made in the implementation of bilateral connectivity projects.

Both sides recognized the need for early completion of two ongoing cross-border rail-link projects— Jayanagar-Bijalpur-Bardibas and Jogbani-Biratnagar rail-links.

The two Prime Ministers noted with satisfaction that the railway line from Jayanagar to Janakpur and from Jogbani to Biratnagar Custom Yard will be completed by 2018. The Nepali side committed to resolve all issues for expeditious completion of both the projects.

Similarly, the two Prime Ministers underlined the importance of rail links in India-Nepal connectivity as these links will usher in growth and development by way of enhanced trade and tourism links.

They also agreed on early completion of the Field Location Survey of remaining three cross-border rail links— New Jalpaiguri to Kakarbhitta, Nautanwa to Bhairahawa, and Nepalgunj Road to Nepalgunj.

They welcomed the award of work of Integrated Check Post (ICP) at Biratnagar and directed their respective officials to pursue its construction and operationalize ICP Birgunj by December 2017.

The two Prime Ministers underlined the need for early approval of Detailed Engineering Designs of ICPs at Bhairahawa and Nepalgunj.

The two Prime Ministers expressed satisfaction on the award of contract for twelve packages under nine roads, totalling about 240 kms, under the Terai Roads project.

The Nepali side assured to resolve expeditiously all encumbrances relating to land acquisition, forest clearances and removal of utility services for early completion of the project.
Nepal to consider Motihari-Amlekhgunj petroleum pipeline project as priority project

The Prime Minister of Nepal conveyed that Nepal considers the Motihari-Amlekhgunj petroleum pipeline project a priority project.

The two Prime Ministers welcomed the finalization of Detailed Engineering Route Survey and Engineering Design reports of the project. They directed the concerned officials to expeditiously remove all bottlenecks, including Right of Way, land acquisition, environmental and regulatory clearances, so that the construction work could begin at the earliest.

The Prime Ministers welcomed the decision to set up a Joint Working Group on cooperation in oil and gas sectors, which would consider advancing cooperation in areas such as construction of LPG pipeline from Motihari to Amlekhgunj, construction of Natural Gas pipeline from Gorakhpur to Sunwal and assistance of IOCL for preparing DPR for extension of Petroleum Products pipeline from Amlekhgunj to Chitwan in Nepal.

Cooperation in projects of national priority for Nepal 
In response to Nepali PM’s highlighting priority projects for Nepal’s growth and development, the Indian PM underlined that India stands ready to provide economic and development cooperation assistance.

The two sides reached in principle agreement for Indian grant assistance to support the establishment of Technical Institute in Far West of Nepal, and the GP Koirala National Centre for Respiratory Diseases in Tanahun.

In addition, the two Prime Ministers agreed that their governments would hold discussions to explore the feasibility of cooperation on mutually agreed basis on the projects as Kushinagar-Lumbini-Kapilavastu and Bardibas-Birgunj Railways, up gradation of Birgunj-Pathlaiya-Narayanghat and Butwal-Pokhara roads into express ways, international airport at Nijgadh, motorable bridges on the Mahakali River, Maitri Bridge at Birgunj-Raxaul border, development of dry port at Dodhara Chandani, developing a Special Economic Zone in Nepal, development of new 132 kV transmission lines, Butwal (Nepal)-Gorakhpur (India) cross-border transmission line and Lumki (Nepal)-Bareilly (India) cross-border transmission line.

Harnessing water resources and expanding energy cooperation
Both Nepal and India while noting the positive and productive discussion on the Pancheshwar Multipurpose Project, directed the concerned officials to finalize its Detailed Project Report within a month.

PM Deuba reiterated the commitment of Nepal to address all pending issues on priority relating to 900 MW Arun-III and Upper Karnali hydropower projects, in accordance with the project development agreements.

The Indian side conveyed the finalization of Detailed Project Report for the construction of head regulator and link canal from Tanakpur Barrage to the Nepali side.

They agreed that the work on preparation of the Detailed Project Report for the Saptakoshi high dam and Sunkoshi storage cum diversion scheme be expedited.

The two sides also agreed to strengthen coordination and consultation on the pressing matter of inundation and flood management in the border areas. In this regard, it was agreed to take expeditious steps, including joint visits, to consider appropriate measures for sustainable solution.

Operationalization of all aspects of the PTA
It was agreed that both sides will continue to take measures to operationalize all aspects of the Power Trade Agreement signed in 2014.

The two Prime Ministers appreciated the efforts of both sides in preparing a Master Plan for the cross-border interconnection for the period until 2035.

PM Deuba expresses concern over growing trade deficit with India
The two Prime Ministers highlighted the importance of realizing the full potential of bilateral trade and investment. They welcomed the renewal of the India-Nepal Treaty of Trade and the Agreement of Cooperation between Government of India and Government of Nepal to Control Unauthorized Trade, in October 2016, for further period of seven years.

According to the joint press statement, PM Deuba expressed concern over Nepal’s growing trade deficit with India.

The two Prime Ministers underscored that there is a considerable potential to enhance the bilateral trade, which could be harnessed by addressing infrastructural deficiencies and trade restricting measures as well as by adopting trade facilitation measures for easier market access to agricultural and industrial products.

Both sides agreed to cooperate towards strengthening testing and certifying laboratories, establishing quarantine facilities and harmonising standards.

Both Prime Ministers also agreed on early conclusion of the Letters of Exchange for transit of bulk cargo to Nepal using multi-modal transport, movement of traffic in transit via Nepal and on amendment to Rail Services Agreement.

Both sides agreed to take steps for early upgradation and operationalization of the agreed trade points namely Dhangadhi-Gauriphanta, Guleria-Murthia, Jatahi-Pipraun and Pashupatinagar-Sukhiapokhri.

The two sides also agreed that issues relating to impact of introduction of Goods and Service Tax in India on bilateral and transit trade be examined expeditiously.

It was agreed that the next meeting of the Inter-Governmental Committee on trade, transit and control of unauthorized trade at the Secretary level will be held by end-2017, to discuss all trade and transit related issues with an objective to facilitate bilateral and transit trade.

The two Prime Ministers emphasized the need for channelizing more direct investments from India into Nepal.

The two Prime Ministers appreciated the contribution made by the B.P. Koirala India-Nepal Foundation in cementing people-to-people ties and acknowledged the immense goodwill that the activities of the Foundation have generated at people’s level on both sides.

The two Prime Ministers emphasized the advantages of cooperation at regional and sub-regional level, including BIMSTEC and SAARC.

The two Prime Ministers welcomed the successful launch of the South Asia Satellite as a unique example of regional cooperation in space sector, and an initiative that would touch the lives of people in the region through space technology applications in the areas of telecommunication and broadcasting, tele-medicine, tele-education, e-governance, banking and ATM services, meteorological data transmission, disaster response and networking of academic and research institutions.

Likewise, the two Prime Ministers acknowledged that India and Nepal have been working together in the United Nations and other international fora to advance cause of common interest. The Prime Minister of Nepal reiterated Nepal’s support for India’s candidature for permanent membership of the UN Security Council.

Similarly, the two Prime Ministers witnessed the exchange of eight documents on MoU on Modalities for Utilization of India’s Housing Grant Component to support Reconstruction of 50,000 Houses; MoU on Implementation of the Grant Component of India’s Post-Earthquake Reconstruction Package in the Education Sector in Nepal; MoU on Implementation of the Grant Component of India’s Post-Earthquake Reconstruction Package in Cultural Heritage Sector in Nepal; MoU on Implementation of the Grant Component of India’s Post-Earthquake Reconstruction Package in the Health Sector in Nepal; Cooperation Agreement between Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) & Nepal Bureau of Standards & Metrology; MoU on Drug Demand Reduction and Prevention of Illicit Trafficking in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances and Precursor Chemical and Related Matters; MoU for construction of Mechi bridge and MoU between Institute of Chartered Accountants of India and Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nepal. RSS 

NEW DELHI, Aug 24: Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba has invited his counterpart Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to lay the foundation stone for the construction of Arun Third Hydro Project (900 MW), stated a joint press meet organized in the Indian capital today.

The contract for the construction of the project was awarded to Indian SJVN Construction Company, and the foundation stone laying ceremony is scheduled for September.

However, the contractor has complained that the process was delayed due to difficulty seen in the use of forest land for the project construction. But now the government has eased the process for utilizing the forest areas for the purpose.

Pancheshwar DPR to be finalized 

An understanding has been reached between the Prime Minister duo Deuba and Modi to finalize the Detail Project Report (DPR) of Pancheshwar Multi Project.

Pancheswar Project Authority Director General Mahendra Man Gurung has expressed his confidence that the process to finalize the DPR will be complete on time after the commitment of the Prime Ministers of both the countries. RSS