Nepal Interim PM Sushila Karki to Hold First Phone Talks with PM Modi

Kathmandu, Sept 16: Nepal’s interim Prime Minister Sushila Karki will hold her first official telephonic conversation with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday, marking a significant step in strengthening bilateral ties amid political transition in the Himalayan nation.

The call was initially scheduled for Tuesday but was postponed, with Wednesday declared a public holiday to mourn those killed in the recent Gen Z-led anti-corruption protests.

The conversation comes at a crucial moment in Nepal’s politics. Just days earlier, mass youth-led protests forced the resignation of former Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli. In a historic turn, protesters suggested Sushila Karki’s name as a neutral choice for interim leadership through an online poll on Discord, where she emerged as the top pick. The Nepalese army later backed the decision, leading to the dissolution of the Federal Parliament on September 12.

Karki’s appointment is historic, as she is the first woman ever to serve as Nepal’s Prime Minister. India has already welcomed her leadership, with Prime Minister Modi posting his congratulations on social media and reaffirming India’s commitment to Nepal’s peace, progress, and prosperity.

The upcoming discussion is expected to cover bilateral cooperation, regional stability, and support for Nepal’s democratic process during this sensitive political phase.