Foreign Minister clarifies Prime Minister’s statement relates to ‘Cross-Border Occupation’

Kathmandu: Foreign Minister Shishir Khanal has clarified that the issue raised by Prime Minister Balendra Shah in the House of Representatives meeting on the 17th of this month regarding the Nepal–India border is related to “cross-border occupation.”

Speaking in today’s House meeting, the Foreign Minister stated that the government is committed to resolving border-related issues through diplomatic negotiations based on historical treaties and maps, in line with the spirit of the close relations between Nepal and India.

He informed the House about the situation of “cross-holding” of around ten lands in some Nepal–India border areas that have remained open for centuries, where locals on both sides have been engaging in cross-border farming despite internal agreements. Minister Khanal clarified that the Prime Minister’s remarks were also intended to refer to this issue.

The Foreign Minister further clarified that while responding to the border-related issue, the Prime Minister mentioned the friendly nation, the United Kingdom, as Nepal’s demarcation is directly linked to the Sugauli Treaty of 1816.

“We are not seeking third-party mediation in this matter,” the Foreign Minister said. “If there is any additional reference material regarding the situation at that time, it may be helpful in resolving the issue, and the Prime Minister has indicated it could be used if necessary.”