NEW DELHI: India and Nepal on Saturday resolved to take their bilateral relations to newer heights by agreeing to establish new rail and inland water linkage to enhance connectivity between two countries on the basis of equality, mutual trust, respect and benefit. Foreign Secretary Vijay K Gokhale, while briefing journalists, said the two Prime Ministers inaugurated the Integrated Check Post at Birgunj in Nepal. Its early operationalisation will enhance cross-border trade and transit of goods and movement of people, bringing greater opportunities for shared growth and development.
The two leaders also witnessed the ground breaking ceremony of the Motihari-Amlekhgunj cross-border petroleum products pipeline at Motihari, India. The two Prime Ministers underlined the need for expeditious implementation of bilateral projects in Nepal, and to reinvigorate the existing bilateral mechanisms to promote cooperative agenda across diverse spheres.
The two Prime Ministers underscored the importance of regular high-level political exchanges in cementing bilateral ties. Oli's visit to India is the first after he assumed office as the Prime Minister following elections in the Himalayan state. He had also visited India during his earlier stint as Prime Minister.
He stated that his government attaches high importance to further strengthening friendly relations with India. He expressed the desire of the Nepalese government to develop bilateral relations in a way so as to benefit from India's progress and prosperity for economic transformation and development. On his part, Prime Minister Modi assured his Nepalese counterpart that India remains committed to strengthening its partnership with Nepal as per the priorities of the Nepalese government.
Prime Minister Modi stated that his government's vision of 'Sabka Saath Sabka Vikas' is a guiding framework for India's engagement with its neighbours for a shared vision of inclusive development and prosperity. Prime Minister Oli stated that after the landmark political transformation, his Government has given priority to economic transformation with the motto 'Samriddha Nepal Sukhi Nepali'.
Prime Minister Modi congratulated the people and the Nepalese government for successful conduct of local level, federal parliament and first ever provincial elections in Nepal and appreciated their vision for stability and development. Gokhale pointed out besides business delegation and top ministers, the Nepalese premier was also accompanied by a delegation of MPs from all political parties of Nepal.
Three key areas of mutual interest were also identified during talks between the two sides —new partnership in agriculture, expanding rail linkages connecting Raxaul in India to Kathmandu in Nepal and new connectivity between India and Nepal through inland waterways. The two Prime Ministers agreed that the visit has imparted new dynamism to the multifaceted partnership between the two countries.