Nepal-India Relations: Kathmandu Needs to Strengthen Political Confidence Amid Delhi’s Interest

Upon his first official visit to India, Nepal’s Foreign Minister Shishir Khanal arrived in Delhi, where former Nepali ambassadors recommended fostering an atmosphere of mutual trust between the two sides. Earlier this week, during a meeting with Ravi Lamichhane, the chairman of the ruling Rashtriya Swatantra Party (Raswapa), Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi conveyed that work on bilateral issues would proceed with clear lists and timelines.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has released the schedule for Khanal’s three-day visit to India, from Friday to Sunday. During the trip, Khanal is set to hold formal talks with India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar. According to a statement from the ministry, discussions will focus on further strengthening trade, investment, connectivity, energy, and people-to-people ties between the two countries.

Former Ambassador Deepak Kumar Upadhyay emphasized the need for clarity in water resources and energy-related matters, stating, “For water management, a DPR (Detailed Project Report) should be developed with third-party mediation and expertise acceptable to both India and Nepal to facilitate water utilization.” Another ex-ambassador, Neelambar Acharya, stressed that questions raised by India should not be viewed with suspicion.

Upadhyay highlighted the significance of political dialogue regarding border disputes, saying, “If talks take place, I would consider that a success. No side has achieved anything by avoiding dialogue.” He recommended that Nepal prepare an environment conducive to making the relationship with India more trustworthy.