India-Nepal Ties: Foreign Secretary's Visit to be Scheduled as per Mutual Convenience, Says MEA

Kathmandu. Emphasizing the deep and multidimensional partnership between India and Nepal, the Indian Ministry of External Affairs has stated that an invitation has been received for Foreign Secretary Vikram Mishra's visit to Nepal. The Ministry has clarified that the date of the visit will be determined by mutual understanding between both countries.

Speaking at the weekly press conference held on Tuesday, Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said that diplomatic relations between the two neighbors have gained momentum after Balen Shah became the Prime Minister of Nepal. He mentioned that both countries are working together to further strengthen the existing strong relationship.

In response to a question about news in Nepali media suggesting that the Foreign Secretary's visit was stalled due to the Prime Minister's reluctance to meet foreign diplomats, spokesperson Jaiswal stated that bilateral relations are moving in a positive direction. He said, 'We have a multidimensional partnership with Nepal. After the elections, our Prime Minister congratulated the Prime Minister of Nepal and expressed our strong commitment to further elevate the strong friendship and traditional relationship between India and Nepal during a phone conversation.'

Spokesperson Jaiswal also recalled the successful bilateral meeting between Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar and his Nepali counterpart Shishir Khanal in Mauritius recently.

He added, 'Currently, both sides are working closely at various levels to deepen our partnership. We have received an invitation from the Nepali side for the Foreign Secretary's visit. The date of the visit will be determined by mutual understanding, and we will inform you about it.'

Regarding the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, India has stated that its stance is transparent and based on historical facts. The Ministry had previously clarified that the Lipulekh pass has been the old route for the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra since 1954 and that this is not a new development.