Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri arrived in Kathmandu today for a two-day official visit. He was invited by Amrit Bahadur Rai, Nepal’s Foreign Secretary.
During his visit, Foreign Secretary Misri will hold bilateral discussions with Foreign Secretary Rai. Nepal’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated that both sides will review all aspects of Nepal-India relations and exchange views on matters of mutual interest, aiming to strengthen the close and friendly ties between the two nations.
Misri is also scheduled to pay courtesy calls on high-level Nepali dignitaries, including Finance Minister Dr. Swarnim Wagle and Foreign Minister Shishir Khanal.
This visit is reportedly in preparation for an anticipated visit to India by Prime Minister Balendra Shah, which is rumored to take place in the second week of Mangsir (BS). The Ministry of Foreign Affairs clarified on Asoj 23 (BS) that while preparations for a high-level visit are underway, the official dates for Prime Minister Shah’s India visit have not yet been finalized.
Foreign Secretary Misri is expected to conclude his visit and depart for New Delhi tomorrow, Kartik 19 (BS).
Background
- The relationship between India and Nepal is rooted in centuries-old cultural and religious ties.
- The 1950 Treaty of Peace and Friendship established the foundation for the special relationship between the two countries.
- In 2014, following dissatisfaction from the Nepali government, India agreed to revise the 1950 treaty to reflect current realities.
- This marks Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri's third official visit to Nepal.