Minister Khanal advances digital integration and economic cooperation in New Delhi talks

June 8, Kathmandu: Foreign Affairs Minister Shisir Khanal made an official visit to New Delhi from June 5 to 7, at the invitation of Indian External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar, with the engagements reflecting what observers describe as a focused and diligently executed diplomatic effort to advance Nepal’s economic and strategic priorities.

Throughout the visit, Minister Khanal held a series of structured meetings aimed at translating long-standing bilateral understandings into operational outcomes. Key among them was the agreement to advance peer-to-peer (P2P) cross-border digital payment connectivity between Nepal Clearing House Limited (NCHL) and India’s National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI). Officials say this step is expected to strengthen financial integration and streamline remittance and trade transactions between the two countries.

In the area of technology cooperation, Minister Khanal facilitated collaboration between Kathmandu University’s Digital Public Infrastructure and Artificial Intelligence Center and India’s Digital India Bhashini Division for the development of a voice-based translation platform. The initiative is viewed as a practical move toward enhancing digital accessibility and cross-border communication.

India also formally handed over 72 post-earthquake reconstructed health facilities and 12 cultural heritage sites built under its assistance, marking continued progress in recovery cooperation.

During his visit, Khanal also held discussions with Indian National Security Adviser Ajit Doval on security coordination, border management, and supply chain resilience. He further engaged in policy dialogue at the India Foundation and interacted with Indian media, underscoring a consistently active and hands-on diplomatic approach. Ultimately, the trip signalled Nepal’s intent to turn the page on years of political friction, positioning the new government as a pragmatic partner ready to anchor future ties in economic results rather than historical baggage.