India, Nepal talk it out; No 'misunderstandings' now, says KP Sharma Oli

Success of Nepal's new Constitution will depend on "consensus and dialogue" and India was for peace, stability and overall development of the Himalayan nation, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Saturday after holding extensive talks with his Nepalese counterpart KP Sharma Oli.

The two leaders deliberated on all aspects of the bilateral relationship, particularly the political situation in Nepal, following which Oli said "misunderstandings" that persisted in the last few months "no longer exist".

The two sides inked nine MoUs to expand cooperation in a range of areas including in transport and power sectors. The relationship between the two countries had soured in the wake of agitation by the India-origin Madhesi community, which shares close family and cultural ties with Indians, opposing Nepal's Constitution. "The announcement of the new Constitution in Nepal came after decades of struggle in Nepal. It is a major achievement. I appreciate the contribution of the political leadership and people of Nepal for it. 

"But its success depends on consensus and dialogue. I am confident on the basis of these principles and through political dialogue and by taking all sections together, you (Oli) will be able to resolve all issues relating to the Constitution satisfactorily and take Nepal forward towards the path of development and stability," Modi said in his media statement, in presence of Oli.

The Prime Minister said India always wanted peace, stability and prosperity of Nepal and that it would extend all possible help to ensure its all-round development. On combating terrorism, the Prime Minister said, "We will not allow terrorists and criminals to use our open border. In this regard the security agencies of the two countries will intensify cooperation." 

Oli on his part said India will remain a close friend of Nepal and that the "misunderstandings that persisted between the two countries in the last few months no longer exist."