Jaishankar Co-Chairs 7th India-Nepal Joint Commission in 2-Day Visit
Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar is scheduled to embark on a two-day visit to Nepal, where he will co-chair a bilateral joint commission meeting and engage in discussions with Nepalese leaders on diverse areas of collaboration, particularly in connectivity and development. The visit underscores India's commitment to bolster the strong and amicable ties between the two nations as part of its "Neighbourhood First" policy. The agenda for discussions includes topics such as electricity procurement, trade, and enhancing connectivity. Additionally, the visit may witness the inauguration of completed development projects supported by Indian assistance.
Upon the invitation of Foreign Minister NP Saud, S Jaishankar will be visiting Nepal, where both ministers will jointly preside over the seventh meeting of the joint commission. This commission, established in 1987, serves as a pivotal platform for the two foreign ministers to comprehensively review all facets of the bilateral partnership between India and Nepal.
During the visit, Jaishankar will call on the leadership of Nepal and meet prominent political figures, the external affairs ministry said in a statement announcing the visit. “Nepal is a priority partner of India under its ‘Neighbourhood First’ policy. The visit is in keeping with the tradition of high-level exchanges between two close and friendly neighbours", the statement said.
People familiar with the matter said on condition of anonymity that among the issues that are expected to figure in Jaishankar’s talks with the Nepalese leadership are ways to take forward an agreement on India purchasing 10,000 MW of electricity from Nepal within the next 10 years, bolstering connectivity by road, rail and rivers, and trade.
In June 2023, when Nepal Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal visited India, both nations reached an agreement for New Delhi to increase the import of hydropower from Nepal. Furthermore, India has consented to permitting the export of electricity from Nepal to Bangladesh through its territory. The three countries have collaboratively finalized a draft agreement, currently pending ratification.
During Jaishankar's visit, it is anticipated that several development projects, accomplished with Indian support, will be inaugurated. Additionally, he is expected to hold meetings with Nepalese leaders, including Dahal, also known as Prachanda, as per sources.
