Nepal's Minister for Foreign Affairs Shisir Khanal is set to undertake an official visit to India from June 5 to 7, 2026, at the invitation of External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar. This high-level engagement is part of ongoing efforts to bolster the close bilateral partnership between the two neighboring countries.
Key Discussions and Agenda
During his stay in New Delhi, Khanal will hold formal talks with Jaishankar, with the agenda centered on enhancing cooperation in trade, investment, connectivity, energy, and people-to-people exchanges. The visit comes amid sustained political dialogue between India and Nepal, reflecting the deep-rooted ties that bind the two nations.
Recent Political Context
The visit follows a recent meeting between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Rabi Lamichhane, chairman of Nepal's ruling Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP). During that meeting, both leaders discussed strengthening bilateral cooperation and advancing a shared vision for prosperity. Modi reiterated that Nepal is a priority partner under India's Neighbourhood First policy and expressed confidence that the special relationship between the two countries would continue to flourish.
Review of Bilateral Initiatives
Khanal's visit is also expected to provide an opportunity to review progress on key bilateral initiatives spanning connectivity, infrastructure, energy cooperation, and economic integration. India and Nepal have significantly expanded cooperation in recent years, particularly in cross-border connectivity, power trade, petroleum pipelines, rail links, and development partnership projects. The two countries share deep civilisational, cultural, and people-to-people ties that form the bedrock of their relationship.
Regional and International Issues
Officials indicated that the forthcoming talks would allow both sides to exchange views on regional and international issues of mutual interest while identifying new areas of collaboration. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Nepal stated that the visit forms part of the regular exchange of high-level visits between the two countries and is expected to further consolidate the enduring and multifaceted bilateral relationship.
Schedule and Conclusion
Khanal is scheduled to return to Kathmandu on June 7. The visit underscores the importance both nations place on maintaining a strong and cooperative partnership, with a focus on mutual growth and regional stability.
