India-Nepal Relations: A Cultural, Economic, and Security Dialogue

Indian Additional Secretary Munu Mahawar visited Nepal, meeting key figures including Interim PM Sushila Karki to discuss bilateral ties, cultural collaboration, and election support. Mahawar pledged aid for elections, disaster recovery, and security enhancements while attending the India-Nepal Cultural Festival focused on Buddhism.

In a significant diplomatic engagement, Munu Mahawar, Additional Secretary of India's Ministry of External Affairs, met with Interim Nepalese Prime Minister Sushila Karki, as confirmed by Nepal's Prime Minister's Office. The agenda was set to enhance various aspects of Nepal-India relations, marking a pivotal moment for bilateral ties.

Mahawar's mission in Kathmandu, commencing Sunday, was crucial to assess the progress of Indian-supported initiatives in Nepal, alongside preparations for the 2026 March elections. He assured Nepal of India's continued backing, broadening the scope of cooperation. Earlier, in discussions with Home Minister Om Prakash Aryal, Mahawar committed to providing necessary resources and security for the elections, also pledging aid for disaster recovery and infrastructure restoration.

The visit rounded off with Mahawar's attendance at the 3rd India-Nepal Cultural Festival in Lumbini, emphasizing shared cultural heritage linked to Buddhism, alongside providing logistical enforcements at the Dodhara-Chandani port. Mahawar encouraged strengthening border security and combating cross-border crimes, underscoring the collaborative spirit between India and Nepal.