NEW DELHI (TIP): Infrastructure development, measures to improve connectivity, earthquake reconstruction and a concerted effort to tackle the perennial problem of floods on both sides figured prominently during the comprehensive talks between India and Nepal here today.

A range of bilateral issues came up for discussion during talks between PM Narendra Modi and his Nepalese counterpart Sher Bahadur Deuba on his first overseas visit after assuming office in June.

Nepal also reassured India that it would never allow any anti-India activity from its soil as both sides discussed defence and security matters. Modi identified defence and security as important aspects of bilateral ties.

At the joint media meet, Modi said both sides had a positive meeting that reviewed the gamut of the partnership and that he had assured Deuba about India’s commitment towards Nepal’s development.

The two leaders jointly inaugurated the Kataiya-Kusaha and Raxaul-Parwanipur cross-border power transmission lines. Eight MoUs were signed — four pertaining to earthquake reconstruction; and one each for narcotics control; cooperation in field of standardisation; construction of Mechi bridge; and Chartered Accountants institutes.

Deuba’s visit comes amid the standoff between India and China at Doklam, a development on which Nepal has preferred to remain neutral. Foreign Secretary S Jaishankar said Doklam did not figure in any of the PMs’ talks.

India also walked the extra mile to welcome Deuba whose predecessor KP Sharma Oli had tilted towards Beijing much to the discomfort of New Delhi. Deuba also called on President Ram Nath Kovind and Vice-President M Venkaiah Naidu.

On Madhesis, India reiterated its stand that the broadest possible consensus of people and society should be considered while making the Constitution. Deuba said Nepal was making efforts in that direction and it was a work in progress.

Source: The Tribune