Kathmandu, August 16

Minister of Foreign Affairs Pradeep Kumar Gyawali today said India had shown to the world how democracy and development could be advanced simultaneously to promote overall progress and prosperity of the people.

Speaking at a reception organised by Nepal Bharat Friendship Society to celebrate the 72nd Independence Day of India, he stated, “The achievements India has made in the last 71 years of independence are truly inspiring. India stands firmly at the forefront, among other nations, with its distinct position in economic development, social progress, and scientific and technological advancement.”

According to Gyawali, a population of 1.3 billion consisting mostly of young, innovative and enterprising section has been a great dividend. India’s economic growth rate has been high over the years. India’s IT sector remains one of the best in the world. It is making great strides in space research. The rapid building of infrastructure, expansion of trade and increase in agriculture productivity have transformed the country’s destiny.

“Nonetheless, there are many challenges. And our challenges are similar in many respects. Both our countries are not fully free from poverty, illiteracy, disease, food insecurity and insufficient infrastructure. The vast natural resources that we have been gifted with are yet to be properly harnessed. Economic inter-linkages are yet to be consolidated. All these necessitate further efforts for a meaningful partnership so as to ensure mutually beneficial results,” he said.

Minister Gyawali said Nepal and India were committed to taking bilateral relations to newer heights by strengthening ongoing cooperation in diverse spheres as well as to expanding partnership on the basis of the principles of equality, mutual trust, respect and mutual benefit. “Besides economic, social and other areas of cooperation, we are expanding cooperation in the core areas of agriculture, railway linkages and inland waterways,” he claimed.

While focusing on effective implementation of all past agreements and understandings, both sides have intensified engagements for addressing the outstanding matters within the stipulated time-frame of September 2018 with the objective of advancing cooperation in all areas, Gyawali added.