Senior Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Dr. Ram Madhav underscored the distinctive ties between Nepal and India, rooted in civilization, culture, and religious connections at the people’s level.
Speaking at a joint program by the Center for South Asian Studies and India Foundation, themed “Strengthening Indo-Nepal Cultural Cooperation” in Kathmandu, Dr. Madhav emphasized that despite occasional fluctuations at the political level, the two nations cannot be separated. He affirmed, “There may be ups and downs in the relationship between Nepal and India, but our civilization, culture, and religion will never fade away.”
While acknowledging India’s respect for Nepal’s sovereignty, Dr. Madhav urged the two countries to collaborate for mutual prosperity, recognizing the challenges faced by Nepal due to its geographical location between the rising powers of India and China.
He stressed the importance of enhancing cultural ties, emphasizing the longstanding relationship between the two nations at the civilization, culture, and people’s levels.
Federal parliament lawmaker from Rastriya Prajatantra Party (RPP) Dhawal SJB Rana expressed contentment with India’s economic progress and urged India, as a major neighbor, to address the genuine concerns of smaller neighbors.
Rana proposed liberal measures, such as additional air entry routes for Nepali airports and facilitation of vehicle movement in border areas, to further strengthen bilateral relations.
Foreign Minister NP Saud, addressing the program, highlighted the harmonious cultural relations between Nepal and India, emphasizing the close bond between the people of the two countries.
Dr. Nishchal Nath Pandey, director of the Center for Asian Studies, emphasized the need for Nepal to attract India’s attention for its development and prosperity, considering India’s growing focus on the global stage.
