New Delhi (PTI) – In a significant step toward enhancing regional cooperation, India and Nepal have agreed to strengthen their border management and security ties. The decision was reached during the Home Secretary-level talks held on 22 July, where both sides reviewed existing frameworks and outlined new measures for deeper collaboration.
The Indian delegation was led by Union Home Secretary Govind Mohan, while Nepal’s Home Secretary Gokarna Mani Duwadi headed the team from Kathmandu.
🔹 Key Areas of Discussion:
The meeting covered a broad range of issues aimed at improving bilateral coordination and infrastructure:
Repair and maintenance of border pillars
Combating cross-border crimes
Enhancing the functionality of Border District Coordination Committees
Upgrading border infrastructure, including Integrated Check Posts, roadways, and rail networks
Capacity building of security-related institutions
Disaster risk reduction and management strategies
🔹 Progress on Legal Cooperation:
Both nations welcomed the finalisation of the draft Agreement on Mutual Legal Assistance in Criminal Matters. They also expressed commitment to conclude a revised Extradition Treaty at the earliest, signifying a step forward in legal collaboration.
🔹 Looking Ahead:
The two countries agreed to continue high-level engagements, with the next round of Home Secretary-level talks to be hosted by Nepal on a mutually agreed date.
This latest development marks a renewed commitment by both neighbors to foster peaceful, secure, and cooperative relations, especially in managing their shared and sensitive border.