Kathmandu, May 31: Nepal’s Prime Minister Balendra Shah addressed the House of Representatives, asserting that the ongoing border dispute with India will soon be resolved through dialogue and diplomatic efforts. This was his first address to Parliament since taking office, prompted by a question from a member of the assembly.
The session was broadcast live, and during his speech, Prime Minister Shah emphasized that the issue is not solely about India’s encroachment on Nepalese territory. He stated, “Both sides should sit down and discuss this matter.”
In response to another question regarding trade between India and China through Lipulekh, Limpiyadhura, and Kalapani, Shah reiterated that these disputes would also be settled through diplomatic discussions. He mentioned that he has communicated with the government of the United Kingdom regarding the border issue.
Shah revealed that Nepal has sent an official diplomatic note to India, which has received a response. The reply indicated that “both countries will form teams of historians, surveyors, and experts to find a resolution through dialogue.”
According to the Kathmandu Post, during the parliamentary session, Prime Minister Shah requested time from Speaker D.P. Aryal to answer the questions posed by MPs. The Speaker granted his request, allowing him to use the House rostrum.
Following this, the Speaker permitted MPs to ask questions on behalf of their respective parties. Some members raised concerns about whether this process adhered to parliamentary rules.
Traditionally, the Speaker allocates specific time for question-and-answer sessions with the Prime Minister, and MPs are required to submit their questions in writing beforehand.
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