Kwatra’s visit comes on the heels of a series of high-level visits from the US. In this context, ApEx asked individuals attached to foreign affairs, politics and business what they think of and expect from the Nepal visit of a top official from India.
Show diplomatic maturity Deepak Kumar Upadhyay, former ambassador Indian Foreign Secretary Vinay Mohan Kwatra’s Nepal visit is regular and routine. But the visit is taking place at a time when Nepal’s domestic politics is passing through a sensitive time, particularly due to the upcoming presidential vote. While I personally think that Kwatra’s main mission is to hand over an invitation letter to Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal for an official India visit, it would be good if the two sides also presented their respective agendas in a free and frank way. But I see lack of immaturity on both sides when it comes to dealing with bilateral issues that demand regular, in-depth and serious dialogue. Some bilateral issues between Nepal and India have remained unaddressed for a long time. This only shows a lack of maturity on both sides. I hope for matured diplomacy from both Nepal and India to overcome the outstanding issues. Push agendas clearly Bhek Bahadur Thapa, foreign affairs expert Visits to Nepal by high-level foreign officials have increased in recent times. Big countries are showing interests in the internal political situation of Nepal. Regarding the Indian foreign secretary’s visit, Nepal and India have always had cordial and close ties. But there are some outstanding issues between the two countries, and they must be discussed during this visit. Nepal should put its agenda clearly and strongly. Prioritize trade issues Rajan Bhattarai, UML leader I think the purpose of the Indian foreign secretary’s Nepal visit is to extend an invitation to Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal for his visit to India. I do not think there will be any concrete discussions on bilateral issues. But, right now, we have some burning issues with India. We have a swollen trade imbalance with India and our foreign reserves are not in good shape. Nepal should take up these issues related to the economy with the Indian foreign secretary. Other priority issues that need attention are the EPG report, border disputes and ensuring smooth energy trade between the two countries. Don’t expect a breakthrough Lokraj Baral, former ambassador Traditionally, foreign secretary of India takes a trip to neighboring countries after assuming office. So, this visit is by and large a routine affair. There are already several bilateral agencies between Nepal and India, including the one formed to review bilateral development projects. Foreign Secretary Kwatra is likely to get first-hand information on the current political situation in Nepal, but I doubt there will be any major breakthrough on bilateral issues, least of all on the border dispute. Even if the two sides were to touch upon the issue, it will most likely be postponed for future deliberations. Seek more air routes Shreejana Rana, president, Nepal-India Chamber of Commerce and Industry Nepal and India should discuss ways to improve air connectivity. Until now, only one entry point via Simara is made available for Nepal-bound flights coming through Indian air routes. To make the airfare more competitive, other entry points should be made available as well. At least Biratnagar in the east, and Bhairahawa, Nepalgunj and Dhangadhi in the west should get entry permits for Nepal-bound flights. As the Nepal government provides permission to Indian private airlines to enter Nepal, the Indian government should also provide permits to Nepali private airlines to fly to different Indian cities. There should be reciprocal arrangements vis-a-vis air connectivity.
