India, Nepal share a unique relationship: Krishna

Kathmandu, Jan 15 (ANI): Indian External Affairs Minister S. M. Krishna arrived here today on his first official visit to Nepal.

Soon after his arrival here, Krishna said: "India and Nepal share a unique relationship that is rooted in shared civilizational links and close people-to-people contacts. Our relations with Nepal encompass a broad spectrum including, trade, commerce, investment, water resources, security, power, education, human resource development, medical just to name a few."

"I am confident that my visit would help further strengthen and expand our bilateral relations and open more avenues for cooperation for mutual benefit," he added.I look forward to fruitful and meaningful interactions with the leaders and decision-makers of Nepal," he said.

Krishna is scheduled to meet Prime Minister Madhav Kumar Nepal and Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Sujata Koirala today. He will also pay a courtesy call on President Dr. Ram Baran Yadav.

He will also meet former Prime Minister Girija Prasad Koirala, Maoist Chairman Prachanda and other senior ministers and political leaders.

During the visit, Nepal and India will sign five Memoranda of Understanding and Indian food assistance to Nepal is likely to be announced.

He will also lay the foundation for the Integrated Check Post in Birgunj.he visit will provide the Indian political leadership an opportunity to take first-hand stock of the state of the peace process in Nepal.

Issues of Indian compensation for Gandak flood victims and extension of two new cross-border rail links will be taken up.

The delay in construction of the Indian-assisted Naumure Hydro Project (240mw), the early implementation of the Bagmati Civilisation Project and Indian assurance on importing LPG from the Haldia port will be taken up.

This would be Krishna's first visit to Nepal after assuming charge as Minister of External Affairs and is in consonance with the ongoing high-level bilateral interaction between the two countries. (ANI)