Nepal will give due priority to Indian investment, says its PM

New Delhi, Aug.19 (ANI): Visitng Nepal Prime Minister Madhav Kumar Nepal on Wednesday invited Indian industry to invest in his country, saying his government would give due priority to such moves.

Interacting with captains of Indian industry here this afternoon, Nepal assured them of providing a conducive atmosphere for industrial growth.

Candidly admitting to the state of political flux in his country earlier this year, Nepal said he would make sure that the investment from India is given due priority.

He identified hydropower, roads, bridges, and infrastructure, construction, and tourism, agro-processing and financial services as potential areas for investment.

Earlier in the day, Nepal called on President Pratibha Devi Singh Patil. He apprised her on current developments in Nepal.

Both leaders discussed ways to strengthen bilateral relations between the two countries.

Nepal also met External Affairs Minister S.M. Krishna and discussed with him issues of mutual concern.

He also laid a wreath at Raj Ghat, the memorial of Mahatma Gandhi on Wednesday morning.

He is scheduled to meet Vice President Hamid Ansari and UPA Chairperson Mrs. Sonia Gandhi before meeting the Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh later on Wednesday evening for delegation level talks.

A number of bilateral agreements are likely to be signed after the talks.

Nepal arrived in New Delhi on Tuesday at the head of a 64-member delegation, including the Finance, Tourism, Commerce, Industry and Energy ministers.

The two countries are expected to discuss ways to expedite preparation of the Pancheshwor hydropower project and feasibility study report of the 240 Megawatt Naumure hydropower project gifted by India. (ANI)