Nepal PM 'Prachanda' said he would keep in mind national interest during his visit to India.
Ahead of his trip to India next week, Nepal's new Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal 'Prachanda' on Wednesday sought views of the country's business leaders to be included in the economic agenda for his first foreign visit after assuming office.
During an interaction at his office, 'Prachanda' sought the views of private sector businessmen on economic agenda for his visit scheduled for September 15-18.
At the meeting, the business leaders suggested the Prime Minister to raise the issues of implementation of Power Trade Agreement and Integrated Service Pass, service tax and operation of Gauriphanta border point, according to officials.
A joint delegation of Federation of Nepali Chambers of Commerce and Industry, Confederation of Nepal Industries and Nepal Chamber of Commerce suggested the Prime Minister to focus on addressing the problems relating to trade and business sector between Nepal and India, according to sources at the Federation of Nepalese Chamber of Commerce and Industries.
The Prime Minister assured the delegation that the issues raised by them would be accorded high priority at the talks during the visit.
'Prachanda' said he would keep in mind national interest during his visit and focus on expediting the past agreements reached with India in various fields.
Nepal's relationship with India had soured after a months-long border blockade last year by ethnic minority protesters.
Kathmandu accused India of imposing an "unofficial blockade" on the landlocked nation in support of the Madhesis, who share close cultural, linguistic and family links with Indians across the border.
Nepal is heavily dependent on India for fuel and other supplies.