Kathmandu: The Indian Minister for Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare, Shivraj Singh Chauhan, paid a courtesy call on Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli on Wednesday. Chauhan’s visit to Nepal comes as part of his attendance at a meeting of agriculture ministers under the Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC), held in Kathmandu.
According to National News Agency Nepal, Minister Chauhan emphasized the importance of reinforcing the long-standing traditional relations between Nepal and India. He highlighted the need for enhanced bilateral cooperation to advance the modernization of agriculture, ensure food security, and foster economic development. Chauhan expressed his readiness to actively engage in forwarding bilateral agreements and joint working mechanisms, addressing pressing issues with equal concern.
The recent interaction between Nepali Prime Minister Oli and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Bangkok, Thailand, was mentioned by Chauhan as a significant opportunity to pave the way for a promising future for both countries. During the meeting, PM Oli reiterated the importance of collaborative efforts between the two neighbors to drive economic development, particularly through the modernization of the agricultural sector.
Chauhan also noted that the discussions with the Indian counterpart in Thailand fostered an environment of trust necessary for moving forward together in economic development. PM Oli underscored the need to adapt to the evolving global environment and to unite in pursuit of national, regional, and international interests.
The meeting was also attended by PM’s Chief Advisor Bishnu Prasad Rimal and Indian Ambassador to Nepal Naveen Srivastava, who were present to witness the discussions aimed at strengthening the bilateral ties between the two nations.