KATHMANDU: Minister of Foreign Affairs Dr. Arju Rana Deuba met with Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri during his visit to Nepal to discuss several important bilateral issues. The talks, held at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, focused on enhancing Nepal-India relations, economic and development assistance, and various ongoing projects.

One major discussion point was the expansion of air routes between Nepal and India. Dr. Rana emphasized the need for additional routes to improve connectivity, especially addressing the current challenges at Bhairahawa and Pokhara airports, which rely on the Simara route. Nepal is seeking new routes through Nepalgunj and Mahendranagar to mitigate operational issues.

Other topics included the establishment of a laboratory by India for testing the quality of fruits and vegetables imported through the Nepal-India border and the progress of the Pancheshwar Project, which is moving forward with remaining issues to be addressed by a technical group. Additionally, discussions covered water release from the Tanakpur Dam canal, flood control measures for the Badganga and Rapti rivers, and the opening of the Darchula bridge. Dr. Rana also expressed gratitude for India's support in rescuing and assisting victims of the Jajarkot earthquake.