Kathmandu, August 19

Indian President Pranab Mukherjee has said India always wants to see a peaceful, stable and prosperous Nepal and reiterated India’s firm and continuous support to achieve these objectives.

He said this to Deputy Prime Minister and Home Minister Bimalendra Nidhi, while receiving him at Rashtrapati Bhawan this evening.

“As a close neighbour, India always wishes to see peace, stability and prosperity in Nepal,” a source quoted President Mukherjee as telling Nidhi. “India is happy to ensure Nepal’s prosperity.”

A wide range of issues, including strengthening border security, control of human trafficking, construction of Nepal Police Academy and enhancing cooperation in security matters, were discussed.

In the morning, Nidhi participated in a function held by National Disaster Management Authority of India and discussed legal, policy and institutional arrangements made in India for disaster management.

He is scheduled to call on Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi tomorrow morning. According to Press Information Bureau, Nidhi stated that India was Nepal’s vital neighbour and the two countries should further enhance their cooperation.

The two leaders also agreed to make a joint visit to Indo-Nepal border area, added the statement.