The Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs Krishna Bahadur Mahara, and the Minister of External Affairs of India Sushma Swaraj met in New Delhi today.

According to a press release issued by Nepalese Embassy, the two leaders noted with pleasure that Nepal-India bilateral relations were making steady progress in recent time and these friendly relations had been reinforced by exchange of visits at various levels.

“Both the leaders reviewed and discussed wide range of bilateral matters including development cooperation, trade and transit, cross border infrastructure, hydropower projects among others,” said a press release.

External Affairs Minister congratulated the Government of Nepal for the successful conduct of two phases of local elections. Deputy Prime Minister thanked the Government of India for the support provided to Nepal's socio-economic development.

External Affairs Minister hosted a dinner in honor of Deputy Prime Minister this evening. Deputy Prime Minister is scheduled to return to Kathmandu tomorrow afternoon.

According to a press release issued by Indian Embassy, this is the first high-level visit from Nepal after the formation of new government under Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba. It is also the first visit abroad of Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs Mahara after being appointed as the Deputy Prime Minister & Minister for Foreign Affairs of Nepal in June 2017.

External Affairs Minister met the visiting Deputy Prime Minister & Minister for Foreign Affairs of Nepal on 03 July 2017 and held discussion on wide range of bilateral matters of mutual interest, including ongoing connectivity and development projects.

Both the Ministers reiterated their commitment to further strengthen bilateral cooperation in diverse sectors and to deepen the traditionally close and friendly relationship between the two countries.

Both the Ministers expressed satisfaction at the bilateral engagement at various levels including political exchanges, and reviewed upcoming high-level exchanges.