KATHMANDU: CPN-UML Secretary Pradeep Gyawali said Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi was very likely to visit Nepal after UML Chairman KP Sharma Oli was appointed prime minister.

Speaking at an interaction organised by Reporter’s Club here today, Gyawali said the recent visit of Indian Minister for External Affairs Sushma Swaraj had created a favourable situation for driving relations between the two countries towards a new high.

“Chairman Oli and PM Modi had already held a telephone conversation in which the Indian PM expressed his desire to welcome Oli to India as prime minister of Nepal. Oli, in turn, reminded him about his pending visit to Muktinath and Janakpur,” Gyawali added.

Hinting about the new government’s foreign policy, Gyawali said that the upcoming government led by the left alliance would adopt a balanced foreign policy keeping national interest at the centre. “We won’t allow any elements to use our land against any of the friendly nations,” he added.

Gyawali also said every stakeholder had learnt lessons from the ups and downs that occurred in Nepal-India relations after promulgation of the constitution. “Now both sides want to maintain close ties.

Replying to the media’s question over Indian EAM Swaraj, he said she extended congratulations on behalf of the Indian government for the electoral victory of the left alliance and expressed the Indian government’s willingness to work together with the new government of Nepal. Swaraj expressed delight over the clear majority in the polls and mentioned that it would be comfortable for joint-work in the backdrop of political stability.

He also said the negative comments regarding the visit was unnecessary. He added Swaraj’s visit and possible visit of the Indian prime minister would set a new trend in the age-old Nepal-India ties.

Gyawali also said the prevailing issues and other issues arising in future in both countries will be resolved through mutual dialogue. “Recently, we faced problems in exporting Nepali products like ginger, tea and others. Whatever the issues may be, we will solve it on the ground of mutual trust and understanding,” he added. Gyawali requested media personnel not to harbour negative perceptions regarding party unity. “Since the declaration of alliance we have been moving forward jointly,” he added.

Unification to follow new govt formation: Gyawali

KATHMANDU: Secretary of CPN-UML, Pradeep Gyawali has clarified that party unification will follow formation of a new government likely to take shape after February 7, 2018.

“Misinterpretations of the Constitution has led to a delay in formation of the new government,” Gyawali said. “The new government led by left alliance would work for stability and prosperity while balancing the trilateral ties with neighbours.”

Remarking that the relation between Nepal and India has reached a new height after Indian Minister for External Affairs Shusma Swaraj’s visit, Gyawali said, “There is no need of passing unnecessary comments related to the visit.”

Moreover, Gyawali called for sorting out disputes in the bordering regions to strengthen ties between India and Nepal.