Dr. Swarnim Wagale, Nepal's Finance Minister, emphasized the close ties between Nepal and India, which are rooted in geography, culture, and long-standing cooperation, during a meeting. He also stated that Nepal's new leadership wishes to elevate these relations to a new level.
India's Support in Times of Crisis
Dr. Wagale recalled India's support during times of crisis, including the 2015 earthquake and the devastating floods in August of this year. He referred to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's swift response to the recent floods, saying: "Prime Minister Modi quickly contacted Nepal's Prime Minister, Pushpa Kamal Dahal, and promised assistance."
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He added: "Whatever Nepal needs, we are with it." This message, conveyed through official channels and bilateral exchanges, has helped strengthen the ties between the two countries.
Upcoming Visit of Nepal's Prime Minister to India
Dr. Wagale also announced that Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal will soon visit India and expressed confidence that this visit will help enhance bilateral relations. He further called for increased regional integration during a session titled "Closer to Prosperity: Opportunities for India and Nepal," emphasizing that South Asian countries could benefit from arrangements similar to the European Union, where countries maintain their sovereignty and national institutions while facilitating the movement of goods, people, ideas, and capital.
Dr. Wagale also linked Nepal's economic outlook to India's growth, stating: "A successful India can create significant opportunities for its neighbors." He referred to the vision of a "Developed India by 2047," which aims to transform India into a developed country by 2047. He emphasized: "It is very important for us that India progresses and creates opportunities for all its neighbors."
Acknowledging past tensions, Dr. Wagale mentioned that Nepal's approach to its southern neighbor is changing under the new leadership, adding: "There was a time when we equated Nepali nationalism with anti-Indian sentiments. That era is now over."
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