KATHMANDU, JUNE 1 The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has clarified remarks made by Prime Minister Balendra Shah in Parliament regarding the Nepal–India border issue, stating that Nepal's official position remains consistent and is based on diplomatic engagement with India. Responding to media queries, the Foreign Ministry spokesperson said Nepal had already clarified its position on the use of the Lipulekh route for Mansarovar pilgrimage by India, and that a diplomatic note sent by Nepal had been replied to by the Indian government through diplomatic channels. The ministry reiterated that both Nepal and India have expressed commitment to resolving boundary-related issues through dialogue and diplomatic means. It noted that the Nepal–India border is historically long and open, and was defined under the 1816 Sugauli Treaty. According to the ministry, boundary demarcation is still pending in areas including Susta, Limpiyadhura, Lipulekh and Kalapani, while issues of 'cross-border occupation' and encroachment in the no-man's land (Dasgaja) persist in several locations. Clarifying the Prime Minister's statement in Parliament, the ministry said his remarks were related to cross-border occupation and encroachment in the Dasgaja area, a situation arising from historical boundary arrangements, particularly along riverine borders where fixed boundary principles have led to agricultural and residential use across both sides of the border. The ministry said joint technical teams of Nepal and India are currently active in border areas, collecting data, maintaining boundary pillars and addressing encroachment and cross-border occupation issues, after a long period of inactivity in the technical mechanism. It further stated that preliminary technical assessments indicate that land currently under Nepal's use may fall within India's side in some areas, and vice versa, which aligns with the Prime Minister's remarks in Parliament. Reaffirming Nepal's position, the ministry said the government remains committed to resolving all boundary issues through diplomatic dialogue based on historical treaties, maps and mutual understanding, in line with the spirit of close Nepal–India relations.