Nepal-India issues can be settled through open dialogue: PM

Kathmandu, Sept 7: Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli has expressed his belief that the problems persisting between Nepal and India could be resolved through open dialogue with tolerance.     

At a launching of the book 'International Watercourses Law: A Perspective on Nepal-India Cooperation ' by former administrator Surya Nath Upadhyay at the PM residence today, PM Oli said there were some problems between Nepal and India, albeit not many, and the Eminent Persons Group (EPG) was formed on consensus between the two Prime Ministers to resolve the issues. 

"We have not yet had an opportunity to receive and submit the EPG report. There was no timing issue for the Nepali side to receive the report. Maybe the Indian side will arrange an opportune time to receive the report. After receiving the report, it will be easier to discuss the pending issues between the two countries", the PM mentioned.     

"India is our friendly neighbour having an elevated culture. We have to talk to our neighbours openly. The blame cannot be merely imposed on the effects of geopolitics for oneself not being able to speak openly. We should not be involved in any game meant for gaining and sustaining power", he further explained.     

Arguing that the word geopolitics should not be used to cover up one's selfish activities, PM Oli clarified that it was not the Nepali culture to oppose the head of their country while staying abroad.     

"Earlier, foreign relations were maintained and dominated by the country's strengths. After the 2nd World War, a country should present its national interests in a reasonable and just manner in accordance with many international treaties and agreements. There should not be a unilateral approach while working on common resources. It should be done on the basis of consensus and bilateral discussion", he asserted, adding that the government was thinking of good governance, keeping the country and the people at the centre.     

Saying that Upadhyay has made an intellectual contribution by preparing the book based on the spirit of the United Nations and the study of practices in different countries, PM Oli said the book has revealed just nationalism with international norms where further debate can be made.     

Reviewing the book, constitutional expert Dr Bipin Adhikari stressed the need for dialogue with neighbouring countries to utilize the vast water resources available in the country. The book launching was organized by the Jalshrot Vikas Sanstha. (RSS)