Foreign Minister Dr S. Jaishankar's Two-Day Visit To Nepal

Utkarsh Classes Last Updated 05-01-2024

Foreign Minister Dr S. Jaishankar's Two-Day Visit To Nepal

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Foreign Minister Dr S. Jaishankar reached Nepal's capital, Kathmandu, on January 4, 2024, for his two-day visit. Dr Jaishankar is visiting Kathmandu at the invitation of Nepali Foreign Minister Narayan Prakash Saud.

According to the Ministry of External Affairs, Nepal is a priority partner country of India under its 'Neighborhood First' policy.
The visit aligns with the longstanding practice of frequent high-level interactions between the two neighbouring countries, known for their close and amicable relationship.

Purpose of Dr. Jaishankar's visit:

The purpose of this visit of External Affairs Minister Dr Jaishankar is to increase cooperation between the two countries in many areas, including connectivity, digital payments and trade.

India-Nepal Joint Commission Meeting:

Jaishankar co-chaired the India-Nepal Joint Commission meeting with his Nepali counterpart, NP Saud. This 7th Joint Commission was organized between India and Nepal on 4 January.
The discussions at the 7th Joint Commission focused on overall bilateral relations. In which many areas, including land and rail, were mainly covered. Topics like air connectivity projects, defence cooperation, security, energy, power and water resources were also discussed.

A long-term agreement on electricity trade:

As part of the visit, Nepal and India entered into a comprehensive agreement for the long-term exchange of electricity. Under this, Nepal will export 10,000 MW of electricity to India in the next ten years.

Joint opening of transmission lines:

Three cross-border transmission lines were jointly unveiled as a significant milestone during Foreign Minister Jaishankar's visit. Apart from this, both sides signed agreements in many other areas, mainly
- Implementation of high-impact community development projects
- term power trading
- Cooperation in renewable energy development
- Munal Satellite
Agreements were signed on handing over the 5th tranche of relief supplies after the Jajarkot earthquake.
India-Nepal Joint Commission was established in 1987. It provides a platform for both sides to review all aspects of the bilateral partnership.

Jaishankar meets the President and Prime Minister of Nepal:

During his visit, External Affairs Minister Jaishankar paid a courtesy call to President Ramchandra Paudel and Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal 'Prachanda'.

Talked to Nepal Cricket Team:

Jaishankar also interacted with members of the Nepal cricket team, congratulating them on qualifying for the T20 World Cup. Assured India's support in their preparations.

Nepal's border with Indian states:

Nepal's extensive border, spanning over 1,850 km, is connected to five Indian states. These states are Sikkim, West Bengal, Bihar, Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand.