Maha CM, Nepal delegation discuss strengthening bilateral ties
Mumbai, July 27
Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Monday met a delegation led by Nepal MP Sandeep Rana and discussed opportunities to strengthen bilateral ties between India and Nepal further.
In his post on X, CM Fadnavis said: "It was a pleasure to welcome Nepal MP Sandeep Rana and his delegation, including MP from Lumbini Province Nima Giri and former member of the Constituent Assembly Amar Singh Pun at Varsha Bungalow in Mumbai today. India and Nepal share a deep-rooted bond of friendship, built on shared history, culture and mutual trust. We discussed opportunities to strengthen our bilateral ties further and expand cooperation for the shared progress and prosperity of our two nations."
Nepal MP Rana said that exports from Nepal to India are comparatively smaller.
"We export products such as tea, certain steel products, edible oils and a few other items. However, there is tremendous scope to expand this trade. One reason for this potential is that our food habits and lifestyles are very similar. As a result, products manufactured in Nepal can be marketed easily in India, which has a population of around 1.4 billion people. In contrast, Nepal's population is about 30 million," he noted.
At the same time, Rana highlighted that Nepal produces many unique goods from the lap of the Himalayas.
"These products are exceptionally fresh, organic and often grown using water enriched by Himalayan herbs and natural mountain sources. Such products have significant value and appeal. There are many opportunities for both countries to increase trade in ways that contribute to the development of India as well as Nepal. Even today, many goods move between the two countries," he added.
He further said that India and Nepal share an open border, allowing citizens of both countries to travel freely.
"This unique arrangement creates enormous potential for expanding trade and strengthening economic cooperation between the two nations," Rana remarked.
— IANS
Reader Comments
The open border is such a unique feature of India-Nepal relations. We should leverage it more for trade in organic Himalayan products. Imagine Nepali honey and herbs becoming easily available in Indian cities! Great potential here.
While this diplomatic meeting is welcome, I hope our government also addresses concerns about cross-border issues like smuggling and illegal immigration. Trade expansion must go hand-in-hand with better border management. Just my honest opinion.
Nepal is a beautiful country with amazing people. The fact that Indian manufacturers can easily export to Nepal and vice versa is a win-win. But we need better infrastructure at border points to actually make trade smoother. Let's hope this visit leads to actionable plans.
Interesting that Nepal MP mentioned food habits similarity. Growing up in Mumbai, I've always enjoyed momos and dal bhat! There's a huge market for authentic Nepali products in India. Organic Himalayan tea and coffee could do very well here.
Fadnavis is doing great work. India-Nepal friendship is truly special - we share culture, religion, and the Himalayas. More trade will only strengthen this. But we also need to ensure Nepali students and workers in India get fair treatment. Let's make this relationship stronger.
We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.