The three-day visit is expected to focus on trade, connectivity, energy cooperation and restoring momentum in India-Nepal relations
Nepal’s Foreign Minister Shisir Khanal arrived in New Delhi on Thursday for a three-day official visit aimed at strengthening bilateral ties and restoring diplomatic momentum between India and Nepal after a period of strain.
The visit comes at the invitation of External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar and is expected to cover a wide range of issues, including trade, investment, connectivity, energy cooperation and people-to-people exchanges.
Khanal’s trip assumes added significance amid recent tensions in bilateral relations, particularly following reports that a proposed visit by India’s Foreign Secretary to Kathmandu was cancelled after difficulties in securing a meeting with Nepal Prime Minister Balen Shah. While the Indian government rejected such reports, the episode had triggered speculation about a diplomatic chill between the two neighbours.
Diplomatic observers view the visit as an important opportunity for both sides to reaffirm their commitment to maintaining close ties and addressing outstanding concerns through dialogue.
The visit also follows a recent trip to India by Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) chief Rabi Lamichhane, a key figure in Nepal’s ruling coalition. During his visit, Lamichhane met Prime Minister Narendra Modi and presented him with a statue of Kathmandu’s revered Pashupatinath Temple.
Following the meeting, Lamichhane highlighted the importance of expanding cooperation between the two countries through stronger connectivity, development partnerships and shared cultural links.
Prime Minister Modi had described Nepal as a priority partner under India’s Neighbourhood First policy and reiterated New Delhi’s commitment to further strengthening the longstanding relationship between the two nations.
During Khanal’s visit, both countries are expected to review progress on ongoing projects related to hydropower development, cross-border infrastructure and trade facilitation. Discussions may also touch upon recent concerns surrounding bilateral relations and ways to deepen cooperation across strategic sectors.
Analysts believe the engagement reflects the interests of both governments. Nepal is seeking greater economic cooperation and investment, while India remains focused on maintaining its strong partnership with the Himalayan nation amid growing regional competition.
Sources in Kathmandu indicate that several agreements could be signed during the visit. Khanal is scheduled to return to Nepal on Saturday after concluding his engagements in India.
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