Nepalese Prime Minister K P Sharma Oli has said that he had spoken to both his Indian and Pakistani counterparts to resume the stalled SAARC process by sorting out their differences.

Unveiling a book titled 'Effectiveness of SAARC and Regional Conference' at a function organised by the Federal Parliament Secretariat here yesterday, Prime Minister Oli said that building friendly relations based on mutual understanding, cooperation and collaboration among SAARC member states were essential for maintaining peace and prosperity in the region.

The 19th South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) Summit was to be held in Islamabad in 2016 but after a major terror attack on an Indian Army camp in Uri in Jammu and Kashmir on September 18 that year, India expressed its inability to participate in the summit due to "prevailing circumstances" and stepped up diplomatic pressure on Pakistan.

The summit was called off after Bangladesh, Bhutan and Afghanistan also declined to participate. There has been no progress since then.

Oli, who met Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his recent visit to India and Pakistan Prime Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi during his trip to Nepal recently, had discussed about the need to restart the SAARC process.&nbsp;

"Nepal is the current chair of SAARC. There is a misunderstanding among some members. However, it is necessary to create cordial environment among them," Oli said, stressing the need for sorting out the differences between SAARC neighbours.

Speaker of the House of Representatives Krishna Bahadur Mahara, while expressing concern over the delay in convening the biennial summit, urged all the member states to take the SAARC process forward actively and effectively.

SAARC Summits are usually held biennially, hosted by a member state in alphabetical order. The member state hosting the summit assumes the Chair of the Association.

The last SAARC Summit in 2014 was held in Kathmandu.

Prime Minister Oli said that building friendly relations based on mutual understanding, cooperation and collaboration among SAARC member states were essential for maintaining peace and prosperity in the region

Nepalese Prime Minister K P Sharma Oli has said that he had spoken to both his Indian and Pakistani counterparts to resume the stalled SAARC process by sorting out their differences. Unveiling a book titled 'Effectiveness of SAARC and Regional Conference' at a function organised by the Federal Parliament Secretariat here yesterday, Prime Minister Oli said that building friendly relations based on mutual understanding, cooperation and collaboration among SAARC member states were essential for maintaining peace and prosperity in the region. The 19th South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) Summit was to be held in Islamabad in 2016 but after a major terror attack on an Indian Army camp in Uri in Jammu and Kashmir on September 18 that year, India expressed its inability to participate in the summit due to "prevailing circumstances" and stepped up diplomatic pressure on Pakistan. The summit was called off after Bangladesh, Bhutan and Afghanistan also declined to participate. There has been no progress since then. Oli, who met Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his recent visit to India and Pakistan Prime Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi during his trip to Nepal recently, had discussed about the need to restart the SAARC process. "Nepal is the current chair of SAARC. There is a misunderstanding among some members. However, it is necessary to create cordial environment among them," Oli said, stressing the need for sorting out the differences between SAARC neighbours. Speaker of the House of Representatives Krishna Bahadur Mahara, while expressing concern over the delay in convening the biennial summit, urged all the member states to take the SAARC process forward actively and effectively. SAARC Summits are usually held biennially, hosted by a member state in alphabetical order. The member state hosting the summit assumes the Chair of the Association. The last SAARC Summit in 2014 was held in Kathmandu.

Oli speaks to prime ministers of India, Pakistan to resume stalled SAARC process

Nepal Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli received a ceremonial reception at Rashtrapati Bhawan on Saturday as began the second day of his three-day state visit in India.

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Nepal Prime Minister KP Oli receives ceremonial reception at the Rashtrapati Bhawan in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Delhi?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Delhi</a>. <a href="https://t.co/ETOVfqOiSK">pic.twitter.com/ETOVfqOiSK</a>
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President Ram Nath Kovind and KP Oli will also hold a meeting to discuss the range of bilateral issues of India and Nepal during the day.

After the reception, KP Oli spoke to media and said "friendship is most important & there is no comparison with friendship. Any treaty any agreement, everything starts from friendship. With our neighbours, particularly with India, we first expect friendship".

KP Oli will also make a visit to Rajghat to lay a wreath at Mahatma Gandhi's samadhi.

After holding a meeting with External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj to discuss foreign policy, Oli will also hold a discussion with delegation-level officers of India and Hyderabad House.

Some development projects are also expected to be inaugurated today at the house.

Following the meet and inauguration, Oli is also expected to meet Vice-President Venkaiah Naidu and Union Home Minister Rajanth Singh in the evening.

&nbsp;Nepal Prime Minister arrived in Inda. He was received by Rajnath Singh and MoS Finance SP Shukla.

Oli also met Prime Minister Narendra Modi and held a delegation level talks on Friday evening.

Nepal Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli received a ceremonial reception at Rashtrapati Bhawan on Saturday as began the second day of his three-day state visit in India

Nepal Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli received a ceremonial reception at Rashtrapati Bhawan on Saturday as began the second day of his three-day state visit in India. Nepal Prime Minister KP Oli receives ceremonial reception at the Rashtrapati Bhawan in #Delhi. pic.twitter.com/ETOVfqOiSK — ANI (@ANI) April 7, 2018 × President Ram Nath Kovind and KP Oli will also hold a meeting to discuss the range of bilateral issues of India and Nepal during the day. After the reception, KP Oli spoke to media and said "friendship is most important & there is no comparison with friendship. Any treaty any agreement, everything starts from friendship. With our neighbours, particularly with India, we first expect friendship". KP Oli will also make a visit to Rajghat to lay a wreath at Mahatma Gandhi's samadhi. After holding a meeting with External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj to discuss foreign policy, Oli will also hold a discussion with delegation-level officers of India and Hyderabad House. Some development projects are also expected to be inaugurated today at the house. Following the meet and inauguration, Oli is also expected to meet Vice-President Venkaiah Naidu and Union Home Minister Rajanth Singh in the evening. Nepal Prime Minister arrived in Inda. He was received by Rajnath Singh and MoS Finance SP Shukla. Oli also met Prime Minister Narendra Modi and held a delegation level talks on Friday evening.

Nepal PM Oli meets President Kovind, will discuss India-Nepal issues

Addressing India Foundation Reception in Delhi, Nepal prime minister KP Sharma Oli assured India that they would never allow their land to be used against India.

He said "We will never let our land to be used against sovereign India. We are firm in our resolve and we need the same kind of assurance from India".

Highlighting Indi's importance in Nepal's economy he said, "&nbspOur economy cannot sustain an alarmingly high trade imbalance with India. We are not a competitor to India, we need breathing space".

He further praised India for its progress and prosperity, adding that the economic powerhouse in India was inspiring for people around the world.

Stressing on the country's cooperation with India, he said, "Our dream is for a prosperous Nepal. This cannot be done alone. We will continue to look for support across the world, particularly at our neighbours". "During this visit, I had comprehensive and frank conversations with PM Modi. I firmly believe and hope you all will agree that a peaceful and prosperous Nepal is in the larger interest of India as well as other neighbours".

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We are a country between two big neighbors. We want to play friendly neighborly relations, neighborly policy & most important for us is friendship: <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KPSharmaOli?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KPSharmaOli</a>, Prime Minister of Nepal <a href="https://t.co/XB7HG1XmLO">pic.twitter.com/XB7HG1XmLO</a>
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&nbsp

&nbsp

&nbsp

He said 'We will never let our land to be used against sovereign India. We are firm in our resolve and we need the same kind of assurance from India'

Addressing India Foundation Reception in Delhi, Nepal prime minister KP Sharma Oli assured India that they would never allow their land to be used against India. He said "We will never let our land to be used against sovereign India. We are firm in our resolve and we need the same kind of assurance from India". Highlighting Indi's importance in Nepal's economy he said, "&nbspOur economy cannot sustain an alarmingly high trade imbalance with India. We are not a competitor to India, we need breathing space". He further praised India for its progress and prosperity, adding that the economic powerhouse in India was inspiring for people around the world. Stressing on the country's cooperation with India, he said, "Our dream is for a prosperous Nepal. This cannot be done alone. We will continue to look for support across the world, particularly at our neighbours". "During this visit, I had comprehensive and frank conversations with PM Modi. I firmly believe and hope you all will agree that a peaceful and prosperous Nepal is in the larger interest of India as well as other neighbours". We are a country between two big neighbors. We want to play friendly neighborly relations, neighborly policy & most important for us is friendship: #KPSharmaOli, Prime Minister of Nepal pic.twitter.com/XB7HG1XmLO — ANI (@ANI) April 7, 2018 ×

Will never let our land to be used against India: Nepal PM KP Sharma Oli

Nepal's Prime Minister K.P Sharma Oli has maintained neutrality on China's One Belt One Road Initiative (OBOR).

While clarifying India's apprehensions regarding Nepal's participation in OBOR, Prime Minister Oli said, "I think we are neutral. Geographically, we are in [the] center between two countries."

"We have two friendly neighbours and have a very friendly relationship with both of them. They are more developed and more advanced than us. Also, they are bigger in size and population as well. So, we want to take the opportunity to walk together with both of our neighbours. A feeling of understanding, cooperation and mutual trust is necessary."

On being asked as to why he chose India over China for his maiden foreign visit after assuming the post in February, Prime Minister Oli said, "India invited me and so I visited India."

Further, he said that friendship was more important than signing agreements. These comments came ahead of the delegation-level talks with his Indian counterpart Narendra Modi on Saturday.

Nepal Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli, who is on a three-day visit to India, met President Ram Nath Kovind in New Delhi on Saturday.

The visiting dignitary was given a ceremonial reception at Rashtrapati Bhawan.

The Nepalese Prime Minister underscored the significance of friendship at the Rashtrapati Bhavan, saying, "Friendship is most important and there is no comparison with friendship. Any treaty any agreement, everything starts with friendship. With our neighbours, particularly with India, we first expect friendship."

Nepal's Prime Minister Oli also met with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and also laid a wreath at Mahatma Gandhi's samadhi Raj Ghat.

Further, External Affairs Minister (EAM) Sushma Swaraj will have a detailed discussion with Prime Minister Oli at Rashtrapati Bhawan regarding the foreign policy and related issues.

He is also scheduled to hold discussions with the delegation-level officers of India at the Hyderabad House. Some of the important development projects will be inaugurated at the House followed by an interaction with the press.

Later in the day, Prime Minister Oli will meet Vice-President Venkaiah Naidu at his house at 6, Maulana Azad Road.

Finally, in the evening, Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh will hold a talk with Nepal's Prime Minister at Rashtrapati Bhawan.

Prime Minister Oli is accompanied by his wife Radhika Shakya and an entourage of ministers, Members of Parliament (MPs), secretaries and other high-ranking officials of the Nepal Government on his maiden visit to India.

While clarifying India's apprehensions regarding Nepal's participation in OBOR, Prime Minister Oli said, 'I think we are neutral. Geographically, we are in [the] center between two countries'

Nepal's Prime Minister K.P Sharma Oli has maintained neutrality on China's One Belt One Road Initiative (OBOR). While clarifying India's apprehensions regarding Nepal's participation in OBOR, Prime Minister Oli said, "I think we are neutral. Geographically, we are in [the] center between two countries." "We have two friendly neighbours and have a very friendly relationship with both of them. They are more developed and more advanced than us. Also, they are bigger in size and population as well. So, we want to take the opportunity to walk together with both of our neighbours. A feeling of understanding, cooperation and mutual trust is necessary." On being asked as to why he chose India over China for his maiden foreign visit after assuming the post in February, Prime Minister Oli said, "India invited me and so I visited India." Further, he said that friendship was more important than signing agreements. These comments came ahead of the delegation-level talks with his Indian counterpart Narendra Modi on Saturday. Nepal Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli, who is on a three-day visit to India, met President Ram Nath Kovind in New Delhi on Saturday. The visiting dignitary was given a ceremonial reception at Rashtrapati Bhawan. The Nepalese Prime Minister underscored the significance of friendship at the Rashtrapati Bhavan, saying, "Friendship is most important and there is no comparison with friendship. Any treaty any agreement, everything starts with friendship. With our neighbours, particularly with India, we first expect friendship." Nepal's Prime Minister Oli also met with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and also laid a wreath at Mahatma Gandhi's samadhi Raj Ghat. Further, External Affairs Minister (EAM) Sushma Swaraj will have a detailed discussion with Prime Minister Oli at Rashtrapati Bhawan regarding the foreign policy and related issues. He is also scheduled to hold discussions with the delegation-level officers of India at the Hyderabad House. Some of the important development projects will be inaugurated at the House followed by an interaction with the press. Later in the day, Prime Minister Oli will meet Vice-President Venkaiah Naidu at his house at 6, Maulana Azad Road. Finally, in the evening, Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh will hold a talk with Nepal's Prime Minister at Rashtrapati Bhawan. Prime Minister Oli is accompanied by his wife Radhika Shakya and an entourage of ministers, Members of Parliament (MPs), secretaries and other high-ranking officials of the Nepal Government on his maiden visit to India.

Nepal takes neutral stance over China's OBOR

Nepal Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli on Friday said he has positive expectations from his Indian counterpart Narendra Modi, ahead of his meeting with the Prime Minister.

Speaking to the media, Oli said, "My expectations from Prime Minister Modi are positive. And that is why I came here (to India). We want to have good relations with India."

On being asked about Nepal's growing relations with China, the Nepali Prime Minister said that the country has two neighbours and would work together with India and China for ensuring good relations.

Earlier on Friday, Oli arrived in India on a three-day state visit. The visiting dignitary was received by Home Minister Rajnath Singh and Minister of State (MoS) Finance S.P. Shukla.

The Nepal Prime Minister is accompanied by his wife Radhika Shakya and an entourage of ministers, Members of Parliament (MPs), secretaries and other high-ranking officials of the Nepal Government.

Oli will be holding a meeting with the Nepali business community of both the countries on Friday, followed by a diplomatic reception by the Embassy of India.

On Saturday, Oli will attend a ceremonial reception and inspect a guard of honour at the Rashtrapati Bhawan will meet President Ram Nath Kovind and Vice-President M. Venkaiah Naidu. He will pay homage to Mahatma Gandhi at Rajghat.

He will then hold official talks with Prime Minister Modi and exchange views on matters of mutual interests.

The Nepal Prime Minister will also visit Pantnagar in Uttarakhand and attend a programme organised at Govind Ballabh Pant University of Agriculture and Technology.&nbsp

Speaking to the media, Oli said, 'My expectations from Prime Minister Modi are positive. And that is why I came here (to India). We want to have good relations with India'

Nepal Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli on Friday said he has positive expectations from his Indian counterpart Narendra Modi, ahead of his meeting with the Prime Minister. Speaking to the media, Oli said, "My expectations from Prime Minister Modi are positive. And that is why I came here (to India). We want to have good relations with India." On being asked about Nepal's growing relations with China, the Nepali Prime Minister said that the country has two neighbours and would work together with India and China for ensuring good relations. Earlier on Friday, Oli arrived in India on a three-day state visit. The visiting dignitary was received by Home Minister Rajnath Singh and Minister of State (MoS) Finance S.P. Shukla. The Nepal Prime Minister is accompanied by his wife Radhika Shakya and an entourage of ministers, Members of Parliament (MPs), secretaries and other high-ranking officials of the Nepal Government. Oli will be holding a meeting with the Nepali business community of both the countries on Friday, followed by a diplomatic reception by the Embassy of India. On Saturday, Oli will attend a ceremonial reception and inspect a guard of honour at the Rashtrapati Bhawan will meet President Ram Nath Kovind and Vice-President M. Venkaiah Naidu. He will pay homage to Mahatma Gandhi at Rajghat. He will then hold official talks with Prime Minister Modi and exchange views on matters of mutual interests. The Nepal Prime Minister will also visit Pantnagar in Uttarakhand and attend a programme organised at Govind Ballabh Pant University of Agriculture and Technology.

Positive expectations from PM Modi, says Oli on India visit

Nepali Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli will press India to exchange millions of dollars held in Nepal in banned high-value Indian bank notes during a visit this week to improve ties with its large southern neighbour.

Nepal and India have yet to agree on how to exchange old Indian bank notes estimated to be worth $146 million held by individuals and informal sectors after India’s shock announcement in 2016 to ban 500 and 1,000 rupee bills.

India said the move was aimed at flushing out unaccounted wealth and hit the finances of militants suspected of using fake currency to fund operations. But it also caught countries such as Nepal and Bhutan, where the Indian currency is widely used, off-guard.

“The Indian demonetisation has hurt Nepali nationals. I will raise this in my meetings with Indian leaders and request them to resolve the issue,” Oli told Nepali parliament late on Tuesday.

India is Nepal's largest trade partner and the supplier of the bulk of consumer goods. Indian currency is widely used by businesses and individuals who keep their savings at homes in Indian bank notes.

Oli will meet Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Ram Nath Kovind and other officials during the visit starting on Friday.

Central Nepal Rastra Bank (NRB) officials say the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) verbally agreed to allow every Nepali national to exchange up to 4,500 rupees worth of scrapped Indian bank notes in a meeting in March last year.

"But nothing has been communicated to us formally so far," NRB Deputy Governor Chinta Mani Shivakoti told Reuters.

A senior Indian government official, with direct knowledge of the RBI's views, said the central bank was unable to exchange the old currency notes in Nepal or any other country because there was no such provision made in the rules that the government issued at the time of demonetisation.

"Only the federal government can take a decision in this regard now," the official said.

Indian citizens were given nearly two months to exchange their old notes for new ones.

Nepali Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli will be visiting India this week

Nepali Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli will press India to exchange millions of dollars held in Nepal in banned high-value Indian bank notes during a visit this week to improve ties with its large southern neighbour. Nepal and India have yet to agree on how to exchange old Indian bank notes estimated to be worth $146 million held by individuals and informal sectors after India’s shock announcement in 2016 to ban 500 and 1,000 rupee bills. India said the move was aimed at flushing out unaccounted wealth and hit the finances of militants suspected of using fake currency to fund operations. But it also caught countries such as Nepal and Bhutan, where the Indian currency is widely used, off-guard. “The Indian demonetisation has hurt Nepali nationals. I will raise this in my meetings with Indian leaders and request them to resolve the issue,” Oli told Nepali parliament late on Tuesday. India is Nepal's largest trade partner and the supplier of the bulk of consumer goods. Indian currency is widely used by businesses and individuals who keep their savings at homes in Indian bank notes. Oli will meet Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Ram Nath Kovind and other officials during the visit starting on Friday. Central Nepal Rastra Bank (NRB) officials say the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) verbally agreed to allow every Nepali national to exchange up to 4,500 rupees worth of scrapped Indian bank notes in a meeting in March last year. "But nothing has been communicated to us formally so far," NRB Deputy Governor Chinta Mani Shivakoti told Reuters. A senior Indian government official, with direct knowledge of the RBI's views, said the central bank was unable to exchange the old currency notes in Nepal or any other country because there was no such provision made in the rules that the government issued at the time of demonetisation. "Only the federal government can take a decision in this regard now," the official said. Indian citizens were given nearly two months to exchange their old notes for new ones.

Nepal has $146 million in demonetised notes, wants India to change them

Nepal Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli will come to India for the three-day visit in April.

The visit will take place from April 6 to April 8.

According to reports, the visit was long-awaited visit as Prime Minister Narendra Modi and External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj both have invited him in February.

Also read: <a href="Nepal Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli will come to India for the three-day visit in April. The visit will take place from April 6 to April 8. According to reports, the visit was long-awaited visit as Prime Minister Narendra Modi and External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj both have invited him in February. Also read: China 'hails' Nepal's foreign policy According to reports ahead of Nepal PM's visit, Nepal Foreign Minister Pradip Gyawali will also visit the national capital to prepare for the visit. Also read: Nepal govt needs to focus on development, says President Bidya Devi Bhandari News reports say that during this visit Oli is likely to invite Modi to Kathmandu for Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation summit.">China 'hails' Nepal's foreign policy</a>

According to reports ahead of Nepal PM's visit, Nepal Foreign Minister Pradip Gyawali will also visit the national capital to prepare for the visit.

Also read: <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/nepal-govt-needs-to-focus-on-development-says-president-bidya-devi-bhandari-127183">Nepal govt needs to focus on development, says President Bidya Devi Bhandari</a>

News reports say that during this visit Oli is likely to invite Modi to Kathmandu for Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation summit.

The visit will take place from April 6 to April 8

Nepal Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli will come to India for the three-day visit in April. The visit will take place from April 6 to April 8. According to reports, the visit was long-awaited visit as Prime Minister Narendra Modi and External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj both have invited him in February. Also read: China 'hails' Nepal's foreign policy According to reports ahead of Nepal PM's visit, Nepal Foreign Minister Pradip Gyawali will also visit the national capital to prepare for the visit. Also read: Nepal govt needs to focus on development, says President Bidya Devi Bhandari News reports say that during this visit Oli is likely to invite Modi to Kathmandu for Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation summit.

Nepal Prime Minister KP Sharma oli to visit India next month

KP Sharma Oli was today sworn in as Nepal&#39;s Prime Minister for the second time, weeks after his Left alliance with CPN Maoist swept the historic parliamentary polls, kindling hopes for much-needed political stability in the Himalayan nation.

President Bidya Devi Bhandari administered the oath of office and secrecy to 65-year-old Oli and two other ministers - both from the CPN-UML - at a function held at President&rsquo;s Office, Shital Niwas, in Maharajgunj.

Oli is the 41st prime minister of Nepal.

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<h5>According to sources close to the Maoist party, the Maoist leaders did not take oath after their demand for the portfolio of the deputy Prime Minister was turned down by Oli</h5>
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Earlier, there were reports that leaders from the CPN Maoist, another member of the Left Alliance, would also join the cabinet.

According to sources close to the Maoist party, the Maoist leaders did not take oath after their demand for the portfolio of the deputy Prime Minister was turned down by Oli.

It is learnt that CPN-UML general secretary Ishwor Pokharel was aspiring for the post of deputy Prime Minister in the new cabinet.

UML leaders Lal Babu Pandit and Thum Maya Thapa have been given the portfolios of Minister for Population and Environment, Minister for Women and Children respectively.

Oli&#39;s party CPN-UML secured 121 seats in the 275-member Parliament and became the largest party. The Nepali Congress has 63 seats while the CPN-Maoist Centre secured 53 seats.

Oli needs the support from the Maoist party led by Prachanda to prove the majority in the house.

His failure to include Maoist ministers during today&#39;s swearing-in ceremony raises question about the longevity of the new government, especially at a time when the two communist parties are in the process of unification, political observers say.

Known for his pro-China stance, Oli had served as the country&#39;s prime minister from October 11, 2015 to August 3, 2016.

His PM candidacy was supported by the CPN-Maoists, Rastriya Prajatantra Party Nepal, and Madhesi Rights Forum-Democratic along with 13 other small parties.

Earlier, former prime minister and Nepali Congress president Sher Bahadur Deuba had addressed the nation and submitted his resignation to the president.

Deuba was elected as the 40th Prime Minister on June 6 with the support from CPN (Maoist Centre) which is now a part of Left alliance.

&quot;The elections of three tiers of government have been successfully held under my leadership setting the foundation to long transition,&quot; Deuba said in the television address.

The Left alliance of the CPN-UML, led by Oli and CPN-Maoist Centre, led by Prachanda, secured almost two third majority in the Parliament during the parliamentary elections.

The Madhesi parties - Rastriya Janta Party Nepal has got 17 seats and Federal Socialist Party Nepal secured 16 seats in the Parliamentary elections.

The elections were seen as the final step in Nepal&#39;s transition to a federal democracy following a decade-long civil war till 2006 that claimed more than 16,000 lives.

In 2015, when Nepal adopted a new Constitution that split it into seven states, dozens of people were killed in ethnic clashes over territory and rights.

Following the adoption of the new Constitution, the ethnic Madhesi group, mostly of Indian-origin, protested for months, saying they were not getting enough territory in one of the provinces and were also facing discrimination.

The polls are said to be a step forward in cementing democracy and providing political stability to Nepal, which has seen 10 prime ministers in as many years.

Oli had served as deputy prime minister during the then interim government led by Girija Prasad Koirala in 2006 after the successful conclusion of the second Peoples Movement. He was elected as a member of Parliament in the House of Representatives for the first time from Jhapa district in 1991.

He had also served as Minister of Home Affairs in 1994&ndash;1995. He was re-elected to the House of Representatives from Jhapa electorate in 1999.&nbsp;

KP Sharma Oli was today sworn in as Nepal's Prime Minister for the second time, weeks after his Left alliance with CPN Maoist swept the historic parliamentary polls, kindling hopes for much-needed political stability in the Himalayan nation. President Bidya Devi Bhandari administered the oath of office and secrecy to 65-year-old Oli and two other ministers - both from the CPN-UML - at a function held at President’s Office, Shital Niwas, in Maharajgunj. Oli is the 41st prime minister of Nepal. According to sources close to the Maoist party, the Maoist leaders did not take oath after their demand for the portfolio of the deputy Prime Minister was turned down by Oli × Earlier, there were reports that leaders from the CPN Maoist, another member of the Left Alliance, would also join the cabinet. According to sources close to the Maoist party, the Maoist leaders did not take oath after their demand for the portfolio of the deputy Prime Minister was turned down by Oli. It is learnt that CPN-UML general secretary Ishwor Pokharel was aspiring for the post of deputy Prime Minister in the new cabinet. UML leaders Lal Babu Pandit and Thum Maya Thapa have been given the portfolios of Minister for Population and Environment, Minister for Women and Children respectively. Oli's party CPN-UML secured 121 seats in the 275-member Parliament and became the largest party. The Nepali Congress has 63 seats while the CPN-Maoist Centre secured 53 seats. Oli needs the support from the Maoist party led by Prachanda to prove the majority in the house. His failure to include Maoist ministers during today's swearing-in ceremony raises question about the longevity of the new government, especially at a time when the two communist parties are in the process of unification, political observers say. Known for his pro-China stance, Oli had served as the country's prime minister from October 11, 2015 to August 3, 2016. His PM candidacy was supported by the CPN-Maoists, Rastriya Prajatantra Party Nepal, and Madhesi Rights Forum-Democratic along with 13 other small parties. Earlier, former prime minister and Nepali Congress president Sher Bahadur Deuba had addressed the nation and submitted his resignation to the president. Deuba was elected as the 40th Prime Minister on June 6 with the support from CPN (Maoist Centre) which is now a part of Left alliance. "The elections of three tiers of government have been successfully held under my leadership setting the foundation to long transition," Deuba said in the television address. The Left alliance of the CPN-UML, led by Oli and CPN-Maoist Centre, led by Prachanda, secured almost two third majority in the Parliament during the parliamentary elections. The Madhesi parties - Rastriya Janta Party Nepal has got 17 seats and Federal Socialist Party Nepal secured 16 seats in the Parliamentary elections. The elections were seen as the final step in Nepal's transition to a federal democracy following a decade-long civil war till 2006 that claimed more than 16,000 lives. In 2015, when Nepal adopted a new Constitution that split it into seven states, dozens of people were killed in ethnic clashes over territory and rights. Following the adoption of the new Constitution, the ethnic Madhesi group, mostly of Indian-origin, protested for months, saying they were not getting enough territory in one of the provinces and were also facing discrimination. The polls are said to be a step forward in cementing democracy and providing political stability to Nepal, which has seen 10 prime ministers in as many years. Oli had served as deputy prime minister during the then interim government led by Girija Prasad Koirala in 2006 after the successful conclusion of the second Peoples Movement. He was elected as a member of Parliament in the House of Representatives for the first time from Jhapa district in 1991. He had also served as Minister of Home Affairs in 1994–1995. He was re-elected to the House of Representatives from Jhapa electorate in 1999.

KP Oli sworn in as Nepal PM for second time

Two months after the successful conclusion of parliamentary elections, Nepal&#39;s largest party CPN-UML on Wednesday picked its Chairman KP Sharma Oli as the next Prime Minister of the country.

Oli, 65, served as the country&#39;s prime minister from October 11, 2015, to August 3, 2016. He is known for his pro-China stance.

A Standing Committee (SC) of the party held in Lalitpur named Oli as the prime ministerial candidate as he is also the UML&#39;s Parliamentary Party leader, Surendra Pandey was quoted as saying by The Kathmandu Post.

The Left Alliance of the CPN-UML, led by Oli and CPN-Maoist Centre, led by Prachanda, had in December secured 174 seats in the 275-member Parliament in the historic provincial and parliamentary polls that many hope will bring much-needed political stability to the Himalayan nation.

It had also secured an overwhelming majority in the upper house of Parliament with 39 seats, paving the way for the leftist alliance to form the country&#39;s next government.

The UML leaders also discussed the party unification with the CPN (Maoist Centre) during the meeting, the report said.

Following an intra-party discussion of both the parties, a meeting of the Party Unification Coordination Committee (PUCC) is scheduled to be held later today, it said.

The PUCC meeting is likely to take a final decision regarding the party unification.

The PUCC of the left alliance was formed to discuss the merger of the two parties.

The process of appointment of Prime Minister would begin after the Election Commission would submit the final results of House of Representatives election under the Proportional Representation to the President.

CPN-UML, with the support of CPN Maoist Centre, has emerged as the largest party after garnering the majority in the three-tier elections.

(With inputs from PTI)

Oli, 65, served as the country's prime minister from October 11, 2015, to August 3, 2016. He is known for his pro-China stance

Two months after the successful conclusion of parliamentary elections, Nepal's largest party CPN-UML on Wednesday picked its Chairman KP Sharma Oli as the next Prime Minister of the country. Oli, 65, served as the country's prime minister from October 11, 2015, to August 3, 2016. He is known for his pro-China stance. A Standing Committee (SC) of the party held in Lalitpur named Oli as the prime ministerial candidate as he is also the UML's Parliamentary Party leader, Surendra Pandey was quoted as saying by The Kathmandu Post. The Left Alliance of the CPN-UML, led by Oli and CPN-Maoist Centre, led by Prachanda, had in December secured 174 seats in the 275-member Parliament in the historic provincial and parliamentary polls that many hope will bring much-needed political stability to the Himalayan nation. It had also secured an overwhelming majority in the upper house of Parliament with 39 seats, paving the way for the leftist alliance to form the country's next government. The UML leaders also discussed the party unification with the CPN (Maoist Centre) during the meeting, the report said. Following an intra-party discussion of both the parties, a meeting of the Party Unification Coordination Committee (PUCC) is scheduled to be held later today, it said. The PUCC meeting is likely to take a final decision regarding the party unification. The PUCC of the left alliance was formed to discuss the merger of the two parties. The process of appointment of Prime Minister would begin after the Election Commission would submit the final results of House of Representatives election under the Proportional Representation to the President. CPN-UML, with the support of CPN Maoist Centre, has emerged as the largest party after garnering the majority in the three-tier elections. (With inputs from PTI)

Nepal's CPN-UML names KP Sharma Oli as next Prime Minister

External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj met with CPN (UML) Chairman KP Sharma Oli on Thursday and congratulated him on his party&#39;s victory in the recent elections in Kathmandu.

Ministry of External Affairs Spokesperson Raveesh Kumar took to Twitter to inform about the meeting.

&quot;In her first engagement, EAM @SushmaSwaraj met Mr K.P Sharma Oli, Chairman of CPN-UML and congratulated him on his Party&#39;s victory in the recent elections. The two held wide ranging discussions on ways to take the special relationship between India and Nepal forward&quot;, he tweeted.

Swaraj is on a two-day official visit to Nepal in an effort to reach out to the country&#39;s political leadership ahead of the formation of a new government by a Communist alliance.

Addressing the media at Tribhuvan International airport, Swaraj said that her visit will strengthen the India-Nepal friendship.

Raveesh tweeted, &quot;Delighted to visit Nepal - India&#39;s close friend. Our relationship is of such a nature that we don&#39;t need an excuse to visit each other. My visit to Nepal is to meet friends from all political parties and strengthen (India-Nepal) friendship&quot;.

Earlier today, Swaraj met Udaya Shumsher Rana, Minister of State (Finance) Nepal.

Swaraj will hold meetings with Nepali President Bidhya Devi Bhandari and outgoing Nepali prime minister Sher Bahadur Deuba.

She will also meet with Maoist leader Pushpa Kamal Dahal Prachanda and Madhesi leaders.

This is Swaraj&#39;s seventh visit to Nepal since assuming office in May 2014.

Addressing the media at Tribhuvan International airport, Swaraj said that her visit will strengthen the India-Nepal friendship

External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj met with CPN (UML) Chairman KP Sharma Oli on Thursday and congratulated him on his party's victory in the recent elections in Kathmandu. Ministry of External Affairs Spokesperson Raveesh Kumar took to Twitter to inform about the meeting. "In her first engagement, EAM @SushmaSwaraj met Mr K.P Sharma Oli, Chairman of CPN-UML and congratulated him on his Party's victory in the recent elections. The two held wide ranging discussions on ways to take the special relationship between India and Nepal forward", he tweeted. Swaraj is on a two-day official visit to Nepal in an effort to reach out to the country's political leadership ahead of the formation of a new government by a Communist alliance. Addressing the media at Tribhuvan International airport, Swaraj said that her visit will strengthen the India-Nepal friendship. Raveesh tweeted, "Delighted to visit Nepal - India's close friend. Our relationship is of such a nature that we don't need an excuse to visit each other. My visit to Nepal is to meet friends from all political parties and strengthen (India-Nepal) friendship". Earlier today, Swaraj met Udaya Shumsher Rana, Minister of State (Finance) Nepal. Swaraj will hold meetings with Nepali President Bidhya Devi Bhandari and outgoing Nepali prime minister Sher Bahadur Deuba. She will also meet with Maoist leader Pushpa Kamal Dahal Prachanda and Madhesi leaders. This is Swaraj's seventh visit to Nepal since assuming office in May 2014.

Nepal: Sushma Swaraj meets CPN-UML Chairman KP Sharma Oli, congratulates for elevation win

India&rsquo;s northern neighbour, Nepal had been a trusted ally of us for a long time. Over several centuries, India had been instrumental in the political changes of Nepal. A buffer state between India and Tibet Autonomous Region (now part of China), Nepal has witnessed many ups and downs especially in last decade or so. In a change of power from KP Sharma Oli who is known to be a staunch anti-Indian politician, this move was aimed for the betterment of the bilateral relations between the two countries.

The Himalayan country once ruled by the monarchy has seen the worst in last two years. Firstly, the Maoist insurgency which claimed more than 20000 lives, then political instability, followed by the Madhesi problem and Blockade on the Indian border. Not to mention earthquake and incompetent leadership which resulted in the worsening of the lives of common people of Nepal.

The country which has seen 10 prime ministers in the last 10 years has now reached a stability with the coalition of two arch rivals, Nepali Congress and the Communists. When this coalition got the majority, it was assumed that the government will be in power for at least 2 years and the second year has started. In the recent local bodies election also, the coalition got an absolute majority, reflecting the faith of the people in the government.

The foreign policy of the country also underwent a change, and is likely to become more pro-Indian as both Sher Bahadur Deuba and Prachanda enjoys a good relationship with the Indian government. Due to the proactive and charismatic leadership of Mr Narendra Modi, it is understood that the relations between the two countries shall improve further.

India enjoys strong cultural and economic relations with Nepal as India is the biggest employer of Nepali manpower. Also, the majority of citizens in both the countries share a common religion and faith. Recently, Mr Deuba cancelled the contract of a Chinese company for the dam on Burhi Gandaki river in the wake of alleged irregularities, thus, proving&nbsp;further the ties between the nation.

Recent legislative elections have just been over and the results have been devastating for Nepali Congress. CPN (UML) led by KP Sharma Oli has emerged victorious with 121 seats in 275 seat house and if we add CPN (MC)&rsquo;s 53 seats, the communist coalition gets a majority.&nbsp;Mr KP Sharma Oli has strong anti-Indian sentiments which may be harmful to India if the damage control is not done immediately. Moreover, in case this coalition gets a two-thirds&nbsp;majority which is just 9 more from 174, they will be in a position of making changes in the Constitution which is a matter of concern for India.

Incidents in the recent past cannot rule out the possibility of Nepal inching closer to China which will not be favourable for India. With the alignment of Communists with China and the joining of their Belt and Road Initiative by Nepal, China is ready to invest heavily in the infrastructure of Nepal whereas India is lagging as most of the promised projects by Mr Narendra Modi could not even start till now.

We must not overlook the security concerns too as the Indo-Nepal border is almost porous and anybody can cross it with basic documentation.

However, the Armies of both the countries have a close relationship and a significant portion of Indian Army comes from Nepal. India is developing Surkhet Base for Nepal Air Force to provide training and other support to them. In the current scenario, a military confrontation is almost impossible but what is important is the political inclination of the country towards China, and India need to control it so that it retains the old status over the Himalayan Kingdom.

What India need immediately is a strong and favourable policy towards Nepal to safeguard its socio-economic interests. Also, have a better relationship with the top leadership so that we retain our position.

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL).

India need immediately is a strong and favourable policy towards Nepal to safeguard its socio-economic interests because recently elected Mr KP Sharma Oli has strong anti-Indian sentiments which may be harmful to India.

India’s northern neighbour, Nepal had been a trusted ally of us for a long time. Over several centuries, India had been instrumental in the political changes of Nepal. A buffer state between India and Tibet Autonomous Region (now part of China), Nepal has witnessed many ups and downs especially in last decade or so. In a change of power from KP Sharma Oli who is known to be a staunch anti-Indian politician, this move was aimed for the betterment of the bilateral relations between the two countries. The Himalayan country once ruled by the monarchy has seen the worst in last two years. Firstly, the Maoist insurgency which claimed more than 20000 lives, then political instability, followed by the Madhesi problem and Blockade on the Indian border. Not to mention earthquake and incompetent leadership which resulted in the worsening of the lives of common people of Nepal. The country which has seen 10 prime ministers in the last 10 years has now reached a stability with the coalition of two arch rivals, Nepali Congress and the Communists. When this coalition got the majority, it was assumed that the government will be in power for at least 2 years and the second year has started. In the recent local bodies election also, the coalition got an absolute majority, reflecting the faith of the people in the government. The foreign policy of the country also underwent a change, and is likely to become more pro-Indian as both Sher Bahadur Deuba and Prachanda enjoys a good relationship with the Indian government. Due to the proactive and charismatic leadership of Mr Narendra Modi, it is understood that the relations between the two countries shall improve further. India enjoys strong cultural and economic relations with Nepal as India is the biggest employer of Nepali manpower. Also, the majority of citizens in both the countries share a common religion and faith. Recently, Mr Deuba cancelled the contract of a Chinese company for the dam on Burhi Gandaki river in the wake of alleged irregularities, thus, proving further the ties between the nation. Recent legislative elections have just been over and the results have been devastating for Nepali Congress. CPN (UML) led by KP Sharma Oli has emerged victorious with 121 seats in 275 seat house and if we add CPN (MC)’s 53 seats, the communist coalition gets a majority. Mr KP Sharma Oli has strong anti-Indian sentiments which may be harmful to India if the damage control is not done immediately. Moreover, in case this coalition gets a two-thirds majority which is just 9 more from 174, they will be in a position of making changes in the Constitution which is a matter of concern for India. Incidents in the recent past cannot rule out the possibility of Nepal inching closer to China which will not be favourable for India. With the alignment of Communists with China and the joining of their Belt and Road Initiative by Nepal, China is ready to invest heavily in the infrastructure of Nepal whereas India is lagging as most of the promised projects by Mr Narendra Modi could not even start till now. We must not overlook the security concerns too as the Indo-Nepal border is almost porous and anybody can cross it with basic documentation. However, the Armies of both the countries have a close relationship and a significant portion of Indian Army comes from Nepal. India is developing Surkhet Base for Nepal Air Force to provide training and other support to them. In the current scenario, a military confrontation is almost impossible but what is important is the political inclination of the country towards China, and India need to control it so that it retains the old status over the Himalayan Kingdom. What India need immediately is a strong and favourable policy towards Nepal to safeguard its socio-economic interests. Also, have a better relationship with the top leadership so that we retain our position. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL).

Opinion: Election results in Nepal should concern India

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