India assures support to Nepal for consolidation of peace

New Delhi, Nov 6 (UNI) India today assured Nepal of all assistance and support ''within our means'' for consolidation of peace in the Himalayan kingdom while both countries discussed ongoing development projects and the progress in bilateral relations.

Visiting Deputy Prime Minister of Nepal K P Sharma Oli, who met Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and External Affairs Minister Pranab Mukherjee here separately, apprised them of the steps being taken by the G P Koirala government in the Himalayan kingdom for concolidation of peace and the ongoing reconciliation process with Maoists.

Briefing reporters on the outcome of the meetings, an External Affairs Ministry spokesman said both countries reviewed the economic packages announced by India after the visit of Nepalese Prime Minister G P Koirala to India in June.

They discussed operationalisation of the 100 million Dollar Line of Credit to Nepal and reduction of four per cent in customs duty.

Various other agreements were also reviewed including the Business and Investment Protection Agreement (BIPA), Avoidance of Double Taxation Agreement and the Motor Vehicle Agreement.

Both countries decided that Technical-Level talks on the Pancheshwar Project would be held at an early date. Discussions were also held on the construction of the transmission line for export of power to Nepal.

''The Prime Minister expressed the desire to see early return of peace in Nepal. India is committed to rendering all assistance and support, within our means, to Nepal in their endeavour,'' the spokesman said.

During the hour-long meeting with the External Affairs Minister, bilateral ties came up for review and both countries expressed satisfaction at the ''warm and friendly relations.'' The External Affairs Minister said India attched top priority to its relations with Nepal. Both agreed there was tremendous potential to strengthen bilateral ties.

The Nepalese Deputy Prime Minister who arrived here yesterday on a week-long visit, will also travel to Kolkatta and Tiruvanantapuram.

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