Political Affairs
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India & Nepal Pledge Improved Cross-Border Connectivity, Forging Economic Ties

The latest meeting of the India-Nepal Inter-Governmental Sub-Committee (IGSC) on Trade, Transit and Cooperation against Illicit Trafficking took place in Kathmandu on 12-13 January.
Sputnik
As officials from the two countries met to explore strategies to strengthen economic and trade ties, Nepal and India pledged to undertake bilateral initiatives to further enhance smooth cross-border connectivity, according to an official press release from the Indian Embassy in Kathmandu.

"This meeting of the IGSC, a bilateral mechanism aimed at bolstering trade and investment ties, witnessed comprehensive discussions on a range of significant issues. Both sides discussed mutual market access for pharmaceuticals and Ayurvedic products. The Indian side highlighted the need for an IPR regime in accordance with the provisions of the Paris Convention for encouraging FDI," the release stated.

Vipul Bansal, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Commerce, Government of India, led the Indian team, which included senior officials from several ministries and the Indian Embassy in Kathmandu.
Senior officials from several Nepalese ministries and departments were present, led by Ram Chandra Tiwari, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Industry, Commerce and Supplies, Government of Nepal.

The emphasis on bilateral steps to further enhance smooth cross-border connectivity between India and Nepal, including the construction of new integrated check posts and railway lines, was one of the highlights of the meeting. Both parties committed to implementing these measures, demonstrating their shared goal of flourishing bilateral trade.

A review of transit and trade agreements, proposed changes to current agreements, investment promotion tactics, standardisation and coordinated development of trade infrastructure were also on the agenda.
India remains Nepal's most important business and investment partner, significantly contributing to Nepal's imports and exports.
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