Kathmandu : Indian National Congress has stressed a need for diplomacy and dialogue to end the border disputes between Nepal and India over Kalapani-Lipulekh territory.

Issuing a press statement on Wednesday night, Chairperson of All India National Congress’ Foreign Affairs Department and State Assembly leader Anand Sharma has said that existing problem should be resolved through diplomatic dialogue.

“India and Nepal share a historic and time-tested relationship marked by mutual respect, friendship and trust. The strong cultural ties and shared traditions between the people of India and Nepal, make the relationship unique and special,” read the statement.

Stating that both the countries have invested enormously in nurturing and promoting a strategic partnership recognizing and respecting each other’s sensitivities, Sharma added that India and Nepal have an established bilateral mechanism to resolve any dispute and differences through negotiations.

He has also said that this situation needs to be addressed urgently adding that India has always respected the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Nepal. “There is an expressed willingness of both sides to settle all disputes in the same spirit of close friendship and mutual trust. Congress Party is of a considered view that diplomacy and negotiations must be given a chance to resolve the present issue.”

India and Nepal as neighbours and natural partners should secure and protect the precious goodwill built over the years between the two countries, he added.RSS