New Delhi: Nepal has reiterated its commitment to resolving long standing border issues with India through dialogue, mutual understanding and diplomatic engagement, with Nepalese Foreign Minister Shisir Khanal emphasising that Kathmandu seeks cooperation rather than confrontation in its relationship with New Delhi.
Speaking during his official visit to India, Khanal said Nepal intends to address all outstanding issues, including border related concerns, through calm, evidence based and constructive discussions. He stressed that both countries share deep historical, cultural and civilisational ties and should work together to strengthen bilateral relations rather than allow disputes to overshadow broader cooperation.
The remarks come amid renewed efforts by both neighbours to reset relations following recent diplomatic sensitivities surrounding border issues. Khanal stated that Nepal’s policy towards India begins with a “clean slate” and is focused on shared economic goals, mutual respect and long term partnership. He underlined that Nepal views India as its closest neighbour and most important partner in the region.
During discussions with External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar in New Delhi, both sides explored opportunities for deeper cooperation in areas such as energy, connectivity, trade, digital infrastructure and emerging sectors. Jaishankar described India and Nepal as sharing a “very special relationship” and called for a decisive shift in bilateral engagement to unlock the full potential of the partnership.
Khanal also advocated the revival of dormant bilateral mechanisms and the resumption of regular high level political exchanges. Referring to the close bonds between the two countries, he remarked that Indians and Nepalese are “children of the same rivers,” highlighting the interconnected history, culture and geography of the two nations.
The border issue remains one of the most sensitive subjects in India Nepal relations, particularly concerning areas such as Kalapani, Lipulekh and Limpiyadhura. However, Nepal’s latest position signals a preference for bilateral diplomacy rather than escalation. The statement is especially significant as it follows recent discussions in Nepal regarding possible international involvement in resolving the dispute, a proposal that India firmly rejected while reiterating that border issues should be settled through direct bilateral dialogue.
Khanal’s visit marks the first ministerial level trip to India under Nepal Prime Minister Balendra Shah’s government, which assumed office earlier this year. Analysts believe the visit reflects a broader effort by Kathmandu to rebuild momentum in bilateral relations and focus on economic cooperation, development and regional stability.