Foreign secy in Nepal to discuss implementation of bilateral agreements

As part of his ongoing visits to neighbouring countries after assuming charge two months ago, foreign secretary S Jaishankar landed in Kathmandu on Thursday morning on a two day official visit.

As part of his ongoing visits to neighbouring countries after assuming charge two months ago, foreign secretary S Jaishankar landed in Kathmandu on Thursday morning on a two day official visit.

Implementation of issues agreed upon during previous visits by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and external affairs minister Sushma Swaraj would be part of his focus during the trip.

"My visit reflects the importance our government and Prime Minister attach to our relations with Nepal. I hope to review progress achieved in our bilateral cooperation following the historic visits of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Nepal last year," Jaishankar told journalists at the airport.

Utilization of $1 billion line of credit which India agreed to provide to Nepal during Modi's visit, figured during his meeting with Nepal's officiating foreign secretary Shankar Das Bairagi.

Jaishankar would meet President Ram Baran Yadav, Prime Minister Sushil Koirala, constituent assembly speaker Subhash Nemwang and foreign minister Mahendra Bahadur Pandey.

He would also interact with leaders of political parties to discuss Nepal's political situation and put forward India's views on the constitution drafting process which has remained stalled since January.

"As part of her 'Neighbourhood First' policy, India is committed to strengthen her multifaceted and mutually beneficial relationship with Nepal. We support the aspirations of the people of Nepal for peace, stability and prosperity," Jaishankar said.