Our goal is to focus on future, not past: Nepal PM

Nepal Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba on Wednesday said that in his talks with his Indian counterpart, Narendra Modi, they emphasized on the development agenda, adding the goal is to look forward to the future rather than the past.

"Our aim is to advance our goals, greater prosperity and build strong social ties. Nepal is truly open for business. With rise of India and China as the global economic powers with all major growth powers in Asia, within a few hours of flying distance from Kathmandu, Nepal can be a new melting pot for tourists, traders and investors. My goal is to look for the future than the past. My talks with PM Modi emphasized on development agenda that is defined by collaboration of our societies," Prime Minister Deuba said while addressing a joint business meeting.

He added that in the past few months, Nepal has enacted the laws and policies for foreign investments, public-private partnership and industrial entrepreneurship.

"Nepal is an attractive platform for export oriented investment in products that are highly valuable. Our labour force is loyal, disciplined and affordable. I am hopeful that we will elevate our relationship to a level that has been never seen before," he asserted.

In a special warm gesture, Prime Minister Naredra Modi received his Nepalese counterpart Sher Bahadur Deuba at his residence, in an unscheduled meeting Wednesday afternoon.

The brief meeting took place a day ahead of delegation-level talks between the two sides.

Prime Minister Modi, after the brief meeting, tweeted, "Happy to welcome Rt Hon Shri Sher Bahadur Deuba ji, PM of close & friendly neighbour Nepal. Look forward to more extensive talks tomorrow."

Nepal Prime Minister Deuba, who is on a five-day state visit to India, landed in New Delhi on Wednesday afternoon.

External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj received him at the Indira Gandhi International Airport.

The Nepal Prime Minister attended a programme in the Nepali Embassy where he addressed the Nepali community in India and business event organised by the Associated Chambers of Commerce and Industry of India (ASSOCHAM).