In a collaborative effort, India’s External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and his Nepalese counterpart NP Saud recently co-chaired the seventh meeting of the India-Nepal Joint Commission. Established in 1987, this platform serves to comprehensively review the bilateral partnership between the two nations.

Key Agreements: During the meeting, the leaders signed five crucial agreements. Notably, a pact to export 10,000 megawatts of electricity from Nepal to India in the next decade was inked. Other agreements focused on earthquake relief, launching a Nepali space satellite, cooperation in renewable energy, and the implementation of high-impact community development projects.

Infrastructure Inaugurations: As a symbol of enhanced connectivity, three 132-kV cross-border transmission lines were inaugurated. These include the second circuits of the Raxaul-Parwanipur line, the Kataiya-Kusaha line, and the New Nautanwa-Mainhiya line.

India-Nepal Relations: The age-old ‘roti beti’ relationship, denoting cross-border marriages, reflects the strong ties between India and Nepal. Sharing a border of over 1,850 km, Nepal is strategically crucial for India. The India-Nepal Treaty of Peace and Friendship, signed in 1950, forms the bedrock of their special relationship.

Challenges and the Way Forward: Despite historical ties, issues like the Madhesi dispute, Kalapani dispute, and Susta border dispute have surfaced. Both nations aim to address these challenges and strengthen economic and geopolitical partnerships.

The recent agreements, especially in the power sector, signify a positive step towards mutual cooperation and development between India and Nepal.