Foreign Minister States Susta and Kalapani are Integral Parts of Nepal

Kathmandu. Foreign Minister Shishir Khanal has stated that the government is clear that the Susta and Kalapani areas are an integral part of Nepal. In response to a question raised by MP Bishnu Bahadur Bishwakarma in the National Assembly meeting on Wednesday regarding the obstruction caused by the Indian Border Security Force in the embankment construction of the Narayani River in Susta and the plans for resolving border disputes, Foreign Minister Khanal stated this. Khanal said that mapping is yet to be done in the Susta, Limpiyadhura, Lipulek, and Kalapani areas. Khanal said, 'The border between Nepal and India has been directed by the Sugauli Treaty of 1816. Mapping is yet to be done in the Susta, Limpiyadhura, Lipulek, and Kalapani areas.' Minister Khanal admitted that the Indian side had requested that work on the Susta embankment construction proceed only after mutual coordination, and for that reason, the work was stopped for some time. 'We are clear that those territories belong to Nepal and we have historical evidence, maps, and basis for this,' Minister Khanal said, 'The government is always committed to resolving border-related problems through diplomatic talks.' Minister Khanal stated that the government is aware of protecting national interests and sovereignty and will move forward with relations with neighboring countries in a balanced manner.