Daijiworld Media Network – Kathmandu

Kathmandu, Aug 16: On the occasion of India’s 79th Independence Day, Nepal’s Deputy Prime Minister Prakash Man Singh on Friday highlighted the depth of India-Nepal relations, stating that the ties extend beyond ‘roti and beti’ to religious, cultural, and political dimensions. Singh, who also serves as Minister for Urban Development, spoke at a programme organised in Lalitpur by the Indian Embassy.

“Nepal-India relations are special in characteristics. We have open borders and cultural and civilisational proximity. The bilateral relation is not only confined to trade and marriage but also expands to religious, cultural, and political aspects. Relations will be refined further through mutual cooperation,” Singh said.

At the embassy event in Kathmandu, 39 educational institutions and libraries across seven provinces and 21 districts of Nepal received books from the Indian Embassy to mark the Independence Day. Indian Ambassador Naveen Srivastava honoured widows and next of kin of deceased Indian Armed Forces personnel, handing over AGIF cheques worth NRs 64 million.

Members of the Indian community in Nepal, friends of India, and embassy staff participated in the celebrations. At a function organised by the Nepal Bharat Friendship Society (NBFS), speakers underscored the historical, cultural, and economic ties between the two nations.

Nepali Congress spokesperson Prakash Sharan Mahat emphasised that Nepal should respect India’s security interests while leaders like Upendra Yadav highlighted mutual support during each country’s democratic movements. Other dignitaries present included Vice President Parmananda Jha, Rastriya Prajatantra Party leader Pashupati Shamsher Rana, Rastriya Swotantra Party leader Swornim Wagley, and former president of Federation of Nepalese Chamber of Commerce and Industries Bhawani Rana, all extending their greetings to India on its Independence Day.