Aagya Khabar
Bardibas

CPN (UML) General Secretary Shankar Pokharel has expressed dissatisfaction, stating that it is unacceptable for neighboring countries India and China to reach an agreement to open the Limpiyadhura border point for trade purposes while sidelining Nepal.

Speaking at a press conference organized by Press Chautari Nepal, Mahottari, in Bardibas on Thursday, General Secretary Pokharel reminded that Nepal’s territorial boundaries were defined according to the 1816 Sugauli Treaty. He said, “We have prepared the map including the Mahakali region on the basis of facts and evidence, and no one can deny it.”

He accused the recent India–China agreement, made without Nepal’s participation, of disregarding a highly sensitive issue. However, he clarified that this would not affect the upcoming goodwill visit of then Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli to China and India. “Problems can only be solved through dialogue, and the visit itself is an opportunity for that,” Pokharel said.

He further mentioned that Nepal’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs had already sent diplomatic notes to both countries expressing disagreement, and now it is the responsibility of India and China to bring the matter to a logical conclusion.

Highlighting that UML is currently focused on preparations for its upcoming Statute Convention, Pokharel said the convention would provide guidance to strengthen the party into a powerful national force based on policies, procedures, and strong organization. “The belief among the people that only UML can lead the country forward will now be proven by forming a majority government,” he asserted.

Claiming that positive signs of economic improvement have been observed since the formation of the current government, he noted revenue growth, export growth, and improvement in capital expenditure in the past year. “Now, the government must focus on enacting the remaining laws required to fully implement federalism,” he emphasized.

In response to journalists’ queries, General Secretary Pokharel clarified that the agreement between UML and the Nepali Congress regarding constitutional amendment remains intact. Although the presence of coalition partners in the National Assembly is currently weak, he said that after the next election, a stronger presence will be ensured, paving the way for the constitutional amendment process.

General Secretary Pokharel had arrived in Bardibas to hold discussions with leading party cadres of Madhes Province on the political, organizational, and statutory amendment proposals to be presented at the Statute Convention. The press conference was also attended by UML Secretary Raghubir Mahaseth, Standing Committee member Lilanath Shrestha, Politburo member Sumanraj Pyakurel, Madhes Province Chair Chandreshwar Mandal, among others.