Nepal-Kathmandu, The seventh meeting of the Nepal-India Joint Commission concluded with significant developments as both nations signed four agreements, addressing various aspects of their bilateral relations. The agreements, signed in the presence of Foreign Minister Narayan Prakash Saud and Indian Foreign Minister S Jaishankar, cover the expansion of communication networks, trade, water resources, and energy.

One key agreement involves Indian grant assistance for high-impact community development projects through government or other organizations. This emphasizes the commitment to mutual development and cooperation between the two nations.

Another pivotal agreement is the long-term energy trade deal, allowing Nepal to export 10,000 megawatts of electricity to India over the next decade. This marks a historic step in the field of electricity trade in Nepal, opening up possibilities for cross-border electricity trade with Bangladesh through India's grid.

In addition to these agreements, a memorandum of understanding was signed between the Nepal Electricity Authority and the National Thermal Power Corporation of the Government of India, focusing on cooperation in the development of renewable energy. Moreover, an agreement between the Nepal Institute of Science and Technology (NAST) and New Space India (NSIL) was signed for the Munal satellite launch service using the polar satellite launch vehicle.

The joint inauguration of international transmission lines, including Raxaul Parwanipur, Kushaha Kataiya, and New Nautanwa Mainahia with a capacity of 132 kilovolts, further strengthens the connectivity and energy exchange between the two nations.

Adding to the significance of the meeting, the Government of India announced a grant of Rs 10 billion to support post-earthquake reconstruction efforts in Nepal. This financial aid demonstrates India's commitment to standing by its neighbor during times of crisis.

In a courtesy meeting between Indian Foreign Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar and Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal 'Prachanda,' both leaders expressed satisfaction with the progress of the agreements reached during the Prime Minister's visit to India. Prachanda acknowledged the historic step in implementing the electricity trade agreement and extended gratitude for India's support in economic development and earthquake recovery in western Nepal.

Foreign Minister Jaishankar assured the further strengthening of bilateral relations and pledged to actively implement the agreements. Prime Minister Prachanda hailed the concrete agreement for Nepal to export electricity, calling it a historic achievement with implications not only for India but also for electricity trade with Bangladesh via India's grid.