Nepal and India on Thursday discussed enhancing bilateral energy cooperation, development of energy resources, and power trade among other related issues during the meeting of the Joint Steering Committee in Kathmandu.  The delegations of two countries, headed by respective energy secretaries, held talks on Wednesday and Thursday and discussed cooperation in energy and power sectors. 

During her meeting with Indian Power Secretary Alok Kumar, Nepal’s Energy Minister Pampha Bhusal said that the need for energy should be met using Nepal’s hydropower through mutual cooperation. She also stressed smooth bilateral cooperation in the production and trade of energy. 

"The energy resources we have should be utilized for the development of both the countries through mutual cooperation. That requires bilateral cooperation,” she said in a statement. 

She also added, "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.”

Nepal has reportedly been looking at finalizing early agreements for selling its excess power in markets in India and Bangladesh during the peak summer season. Nepal, which became a net energy surplus country during summer last year, had struggled last year to sell its excess power. 

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

“We are positive about allowing trade with India and Bangladesh," the Indian Power Secretary said, adding that energy trade would help in strengthening bilateral relations. Stating that they are positive about creating a favorable environment for energy trade. He also stressed on earlier completion of energy projects in Nepal. 

(SAM)