KATHMANDU, Nov. 4: Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri arrived in Kathmandu on Wednesday for a two-day official visit, with discussions expected to focus on strengthening bilateral relations and preparations for Nepalese Prime Minister Balendra Shah’s proposed visit to India.
Misri was received at Tribhuvan International Airport by Gehendra Rajbhandari, Joint Secretary at Nepal’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and India’s newly appointed Ambassador to Nepal, Sudhakar Dalela.
The visit comes at the invitation of Nepalese Foreign Secretary Amrit Bahadur Rai and is expected to provide an opportunity for both countries to review their diplomatic engagement and discuss issues of mutual interest.
During his stay, Misri is scheduled to meet several senior Nepalese leaders and officials. His engagements include a courtesy meeting with Foreign Minister Shisir Khanal and bilateral discussions with Foreign Secretary Rai on Wednesday.
The two foreign secretaries are expected to review the overall state of Nepal-India relations and explore ways to further strengthen cooperation between the neighbouring countries.
Misri is also likely to meet Prime Minister Balendra Shah, who is expected to undertake an official visit to India during the final week of November. The proposed trip would be Shah’s first bilateral visit to India since assuming office in March.
Although the dates have not yet been formally announced, Misri’s discussions with Nepalese leadership are expected to help advance preparations for the visit.
The Indian Foreign Secretary is scheduled to conclude his engagements and return to New Delhi on Thursday after completing the two-day programme.
This marks Misri’s second visit to Kathmandu since assuming office as India’s Foreign Secretary in July 2024, reflecting the importance both countries attach to maintaining regular diplomatic engagement.
India and Nepal share longstanding historical, cultural, economic and geographical connections. Their relationship encompasses trade, connectivity, energy cooperation, development assistance and people-to-people exchanges.
Misri’s latest visit is expected to provide fresh momentum to bilateral engagement and strengthen communication between the leadership and diplomatic establishments of the two neighbouring countries.