The three-day official visit (Nov. 24-26) of Indian minister for external affairs, Pranab Mukherjee, is expected to further widen and deepen the relations between Nepal and India. The 16-point joint press statement issued at the conclusion of the visit points to that. On its part, Nepal, for instance, pledged to take necessary measures designed to promote an investor-friendly atmosphere, and Nepal has called for foreign direct investment, including Indian private and public investment. Nepal appreciated Indian lifting of the ban on the export of some essential commodities, with both agreeing to review its requirements on a periodic basis. They also agreed, among other things, to sign an updated extradition treaty, to put in place an effective mechanism for curbing criminal activities across the border, and stressed the need to complete the construction of the breached portion of the Kosi embankment by March 2009. Both agreed to sign the ‘scientific strip mapping’ of the borders after the remaining two percent work is completed.

The Mukherjee visit represents a continuation of the exchanges of high-level visits; however, from India, this was the first high-level one since the April 10 Constituent Assembly election. Both sides expressed satisfaction at the progress on bilateral agendas agreed upon during Prime Minister Prachanda’s official visit to India (Sept.14-18). Some of the decisions have been implemented, including follow-up meetings at secretary level to enhance cooperation in dealing with cross-border crimes and addressing shared security concerns, in promoting mutual interests in water resources, and in strengthening bilateral trade, including revising the trade treaty. Since this government took office in August, the prime ministers of Nepal and India have met twice and the two foreign ministers have met five times. Frequent bilateral interactions like these have injected new dynamism into the age-old ties subsisting between the two countries in the changed present context.

Agreement is important, but no less so is its implementation. The speed with which it is done constitutes an important third factor. Some of the Indian-aided projects have been characterised by long delays. But the way the two sides have been moving forward of late provides optimism that the kinds of mistakes committed in the past are corrected in the days to come. It was a good thing that Mukherjee also said that the border issues at Susta and Kalapani would be resolved through talks. It is hoped that enough care will be taken in the future by both the parties to avoid unilateral action on any issue. It also needs to be ensured that the agreed points of bilateral relationship are carried into execution; for instance, that the items to be exported and imported as sanctioned under the trade treaty do face hassles at the hands of the authorities of either country. It is a fact that Nepal needs Indian goodwill and cooperation, more than the other way round, for its peace and progress. However, each should understand the other’s legitimate sensitivities and interests. The greater onus, naturally, falls on the much bigger and much more developed and powerful partner.