Kathmandu: A delegation including Energy Secretary of the Government of India, Alok Kumar, paid a courtesy call on Minister for Energy, Water Resources and Irrigation, Pampha Bhusal on Thursday. They discussed various issues of overall energy development, trade and mutual benefit.

On the occasion, Minister Bhusal said that the need for energy should be met using Nepal’s hydropower through mutual cooperation. Stressing the need for moving forward on the path of economic prosperity, she pointed out the need for smooth bilateral cooperation in production and trade. She said, "The energy resources we have should be utilized for the development of both the countries through mutual cooperation. That requires bilateral cooperation.”

Elaborating on energy cooperation, Minister Bhusal said, "Energy trade between us should be smooth. This will help in the development of both the countries and create a favorable environment for energy trade in third countries. In this sense, I am confident that the secretary-level meeting will be fruitful.”

Urging to facilitate the export of energy produced by Nepal to the Indian energy market, Minister Bhusal expressed confidence that good allies would contribute to the prosperity of the neighboring countries.

On the occasion, Energy Secretary of the Government of India, Alok Kumar expressed confidence that energy trade would help in strengthening bilateral relations. Stating that they are positive about creating a favorable environment for energy trade, he said, "We are positive about allowing trade with India and Bangladesh."

Expressing hope that the ongoing meeting in Kathmandu would yield successful results, he said, "I hope we will succeed in this meeting." Stating that Arun III is moving forward at a fast pace, Secretary Alok said, "I have asked the stakeholders to complete this project as soon as possible as it will deepen the mutual friendship."