India and Nepal Prime Ministers Should Collaborate to Address Outstanding Issues, Says Ex-Nepalese PM Bhattarai

Former Nepalese Prime Minister Baburam Bhattarai recently highlighted the longstanding ties between India and Nepal. He suggested that the prime ministers of both nations should engage in dialogue to address unresolved issues. During his visit to India, Bhattarai met Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and discussed various topics, including Nepal's political landscape and its journey towards constitutional democracy.

Bhattarai noted that Nepal's political instability stems from an incomplete revolution or a prolonged transition following a political upheaval. He emphasised that dialogue is crucial for resolving historical issues between India and Nepal, such as the Kalapani border dispute. He also mentioned the 1816 Treaty of Sugauli and the 1950 Treaty of Peace and Friendship to support his point.

India-Nepal Relations

The former prime minister stressed the importance of economic cooperation with India for Nepal's prosperity. He acknowledged certain misunderstandings and historical issues that need thorough discussion. "It is high time our two prime ministers meet together and resolve the outstanding problems left by history," he stated, urging for a closer working relationship between the two countries.

Bhattarai recognised India's status as a rising regional power while noting Nepal's lagging progress. He called for a strong understanding among top political leaders to address historical problems through dialogue. On China-Nepal relations, he assured that Nepal would not be used against India.

Potential for Economic Cooperation

In a conversation with Videos, Bhattarai expressed hope for resolving strained ties due to misunderstandings or wrong policies by both governments. "We are the closest neighbours, historically, politically, culturally, and socially," he said, wishing for mutual prosperity through improved relations.

The former PM highlighted Nepal's need for Indian investment in sectors like tourism, industry, health, and IT. Discussing Nepal's future path, he mentioned the country's delayed transition from monarchy to democracy but affirmed progress. "We are doing quite well, and there is no reason we should go back," he remarked.

Political Landscape in Nepal

Bhattarai underscored that the benefits of a revolution should lead to socio-economic transformation or rapid development for the people. Despite forming a Constitution through a Constituent Assembly where he played a role as chairman, governance or electoral system flaws have led to ongoing political instability in Nepal.

He described the political revolution as a significant victory that ended monarchy but admitted it was partially unsuccessful. In his initial remarks, Bhattarai proposed adopting a directly elected president and a fully proportional parliament for Nepal.

Bhattarai concluded by reiterating his belief in dialogue as the best way to resolve old issues between India and Nepal. He expressed hope that both countries could work together towards prosperity and stability.