NEW DELHI: The International Relations and Global Diplomacy Dialogue (IRGDD) of Nepal and the Indian Council of World Affairs (ICWA) recently signed a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) at Sapru House, the historic home of India’s premier foreign policy think tank under the Ministry of External Affairs.
The MoU marks a significant step in strengthening Nepal–India bilateral relations at the institutional level. It aims to foster long-term cooperation in diplomacy, culture, education, trade, media and other sectors. Dr Sarmila Parajuli Dhakal, President of IRGDD and Ambassador Nutan Kapoor Mahawar, Acting Director General and Additional Secretary at ICWA, signed the agreement during a formal ceremony hosted by ICWA.
The partnership envisions deeper mutual understanding and collaboration between the two think tanks. Provisions include reciprocal visits by eminent diplomats, scholars and professionals; joint organisation of seminars, symposiums and panel discussions; publication exchanges; digital linkages; and hosting of events in both countries. Costs for travel, accommodation and events will be shared equally, reflecting mutual commitment.
Speaking at the event, Dr Sarmila urged a shift in South Asian diplomacy “from reaction to reflection, from assumptions to understanding”, expressing confidence that the MoU would cultivate a forward-looking and compassionate approach. Ambassador Mahawar underscored that Nepal remains “an extremely important partner” under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Neighbourhood First policy, noting the relationship transcends traditional diplomacy.
The ceremony drew diplomats, scholars and dignitaries from both nations, including Dr Surendra Thapa, Deputy Chief of Mission at the Embassy of Nepal in New Delhi and Bimal Dhakal, publisher of Diplomat Nepal.
Delivering a special address, “Modern Realities, A Historic Friendship: Crafting Nepal–India Relations for a New Era”, Dr Sarmila reflected on her experiences as Nepal’s former ambassador to Spain and Oman. She described diplomacy as a driver of “peace, prosperity and partnership” — from safeguarding migrant rights to expanding cultural exchange and connectivity.
Calling Nepal–India ties a ‘civilisational continuum’, she highlighted shared spiritual and cultural bonds: “From Janakpur to Ayodhya, Pashupatinath to Varanasi and Lumbini to Bodhgaya — these are not just physical pathways, but emotional arteries flowing with centuries of coexistence”.
She praised India’s rise as a global power and reaffirmed Nepal’s principles of non-alignment, peaceful coexistence, neutrality and universal friendship. She also acknowledged India’s role in Nepal’s advances in hydropower, infrastructure, climate action and entrepreneurship, expressing optimism ahead of Prime Minister K P Sharma Oli’s upcoming visit to India.
Closing with a call for “trust-based, transparent and transformative partnerships”, Dr Sarmila outlined her leadership of IRGDD, Ambassador’s Club Nepal and The Diplomat Nepal, all aimed at elevating Nepal’s global profile through strategic, inclusive and soft diplomacy.
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