Border issue with India will be resolved through talks, diplomatic efforts: Nepal PM
Kathmandu, May 31
Nepal Prime Minister Balendra Shah on Sunday said that the border issue with India will be resolved through dialogue and diplomacy.
The Nepal Prime Minister, who addressed the country's Parliament for the first time since assuming office after the March elections, emphasised the importance of negotiations.
He said the border issue with India will be resolved "through table talks and diplomatic efforts".
India had said earlier this month that it remains open to a constructive interaction with Nepal on all issues in the bilateral relationship, including on resolving agreed outstanding boundary issues through dialogue and diplomacy.
In response to media queries regarding claims related to border issues made by Foreign Ministry of Nepal in the context of the annual Kailash Manasarovar Yatra, Ministry of External Affairs Official Spokesperson Randeep Jaiswal said that India's position in this regard had been consistent and clear.
"Lipulekh Pass has been a long standing route for the Kailash Manasarovar Yatra since 1954 and the Yatra through this route has been going on for decades. This is not a new development," he said.
"As regards territorial claims, India has consistently maintained that such claims are neither justified nor based on historical facts and evidence. Such unilateral artificial enlargement of territorial claims is untenable," the Spokesperson added.
India had in 2020 rejected KP Sharma Oli-led government's move concerning Limpiyadhura, Lipulekh, and Kalapani and said the revised map issued includes parts of Indian territory.
"This unilateral act is not based on historical facts and evidence. It is contrary to the bilateral understanding to resolve the outstanding boundary issues through diplomatic dialogue. Such artificial enlargement of territorial claims will not be accepted by India," the Ministry of External Affairs had said.
— ANI
Reader Comments
Good to see Nepal's PM taking the diplomatic route. The previous Oli government's map revision was unnecessarily provocative. India has been consistent on the historical route for the pilgrimage and hasn't changed its stance. Let's hope this new leadership brings sensible resolution.
As an Indian who values our relationship with Nepal, I appreciate this approach. But India should also be mindful that Nepal's political dynamics sometimes force tough rhetoric. The fact that both sides want dialogue is positive. Let's not forget the cultural and religious ties between our peoples. 🙏
Nepal's PM is being pragmatic here. The border disputes have been there for decades and need patience. India's statement that the yatra route has been in use since 1954 is a strong argument. But both sides need to compromise a bit. Hope the talks lead to sustainable solution.
I have been following this issue closely. The 2020 map revision by Oli government created unnecessary tension. India's position has always been clear - these claims are not based on historical facts. But as a neighbour, India should also listen to Nepal's concerns. Diplomacy is the only way forward.
The Kailash Manasarovar Yatra is sacred for Hindus from both countries. It's good that India mentioned the historical usage since 1954. Nepal should understand that this religious route cannot be politicized. But yes, let's sit at the table and talk like grown-ups instead of making it a nationalist issue. ✨
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