M A I N   N E W S

Modi hopes to start new chapter in ties with Nepal
Tribune News Service

New Delhi, August 2
Prime Minister Narendra Modi today hoped his visit to Nepal will open a new chapter in bilateral relations, characterised by frequent political engagement and closer cooperation across the spectrum, and serve as a model and catalyst for South Asian partnership for prosperity.

Ahead of his two-day visit starting tomorrow, the Prime Minister said he was excited to be able to go there within weeks of assuming the office. “My visit reflects our shared heritage of nature, history, culture, spiritualism and religion. It highlights the high priority that my government attaches to our relations with Nepal and our determination to take our relationship to an entirely new level. My visit will be the first bilateral visit by an Indian Prime Minister to Nepal in 17 years,” the Prime Minister said in a pre-departure statement.

Expressing delight that Prime Minister Sushil Koirala had attended his swearing-in ceremony, Modi said it demonstrated the solidarity of the people of Nepal with India and shared commitment to democracy.

The Prime Minister said he would have the opportunity to hold discussions with the Nepalese leadership on bilateral relations and was looking forward to working with the leadership of Nepal to forge a new relationship.

As a close friend and neighbour, India has had the privilege of being a leading partner in Nepal’s socio-economic development. Underscoring that New Delhi is committed to continuing its support to Nepal in its development efforts, Modi said India’s ongoing projects for development of border infrastructure would usher in economic prosperity to those living on both sides of the border and also enhance connectivity.