Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs Narayan Kaji Shrestha emphasized the importance of resolving bilateral issues between Nepal and India through dialogue and diplomatic channels. Speaking at the third edition of the Lecture Series on Nepal-India Relations, organized by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to honor former Ambassador and Foreign Secretary Prof Yadunath Khanal, Shrestha underscored the historical friendship and cooperation between the two neighboring countries.

Highlighting the significant aspects of Nepal-India ties, including geographical proximity, cultural affinity, economic engagement, and robust people-to-people relations, Shrestha stressed the need for dialogue based on historical facts and the spirit of good neighborhood to address unresolved bilateral issues. He reaffirmed that the foundation of bilateral relations rests on sovereign equality, peaceful coexistence, mutual trust, and understanding.

Shrestha also noted that high-level visits between Nepal and India have strengthened relations and fostered partnerships across various sectors. He mentioned the establishment of consultative mechanisms to facilitate cooperation in bilateral relations, leading to enhanced collaboration and partnership.

The third lecture series, focusing on Nepal-India relations, featured Prof C Rajmohan, former Director of the Academy of South Asian Studies, as the keynote speaker. Prof Rajmohan emphasized the importance of a pragmatic approach to address global challenges faced by both countries and suggested learning from China’s diplomatic strategies, particularly in improving relations with Russia and the USA according to evolving needs.

Foreign Secretary of Nepal, Sewa Lamsal, highlighted that the lecture series aims to deepen thematic knowledge and engage with scholars to discuss the country’s foreign policy and practices.

Sweta Singh(Kathmandu)