Nepal Prime Minister meets President, Vice President

New Delhi, Aug 24 (IANS) President Ram Nath Kovind and Vice President M. Venkaiah Naidu on Thursday met Nepal Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba and stressed on the need to expand India's economic and development cooperation and establish social institutions in the neighbouring country.

Congratulating Deuba on becoming Nepal's Prime Minister for the fourth time, Kovind expressed satisfaction on the state of India-Nepal relations which have seen eight high-level visits in the past three years.

"India-Nepal relations derive their strength from a shared history, common culture, trade links and an open border. This is symbolised by the national treatment both countries give to each other's citizens. India is looking forward to expanding its economic and development cooperation with Nepal, as per Nepal's national priorities," Kovind said.

He also expressed happiness that the Prime Minister of Nepal was the first foreign dignitary to stay in Rashtrapati Bhavan during his presidency.

Vice President M. Venkaiah Naidu said India was partnering to create physical infrastructure and establish social institutions in Nepal.

"Enhanced connectivity between the two countries will boost economic growth and renewed focus should be given to projects like Terai roads, rail links, integrated check posts, as well as Raxaual-Amlekhgunj oil pipeline," Naidu said.

"There was immense potential for bilateral cooperation in hydro-power sector and both countries should work for expeditious implementation of Pancheshwar project signed in 1996. We need to expand our cooperation in water resources sector for the benefit of people of our two nations," said Naidu.

Talking about the unique open border between the two nations, he said: "We must be vigilant against misuse of the open border by the miscreants. India has been rendering help to Nepal in strengthening Nepal Police and the Armed Force Police by way of providing equipment, vehicles and training."

Naidu said that India wishes to carry along all neighbouring countries with it and the endeavour of the government 'Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas' applies to both within and outside India.

The Vice President said that Nepal was engaged in the important task of implementing the Constitution and establishing a progressive and inclusive political agenda. "It is important to establish a political system that accommodates the aspirations of every section of Nepal's society," he added.