New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi stated that the open borders between India and Nepal should not be abused by undesirable groups. He made the remarks during a ceremony when Nepal and India signed four agreements. 

"We addressed how India's and Nepal's open borders should not be abused by undesirable people. We also emphasised the importance of maintaining close coordination between our defence and security services," PM Modi stated as border tensions between India and China began in 2020. 

Both countries have signed four treaties that will strengthen relations in areas such as energy and railways. This was Nepalese Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba's first foreign bilateral visit since taking office for the fifth time in July last year.

 "The friendly relations that exist between India and Nepal are one-of-a-kind... such camaraderie is not witnessed anywhere else in the globe. Our united vision statement on power cooperation will serve as a roadmap for future collaboration" said PM  Modi. 

Kathmandu has, in the past, talked about its friendly relations with Beijing.

"The Nepalese prime minister is in India as the country celebrates the New Year (Ugadi, Gudipadwa). He has been instrumental in strengthening ties with India. Our links trace back to ancient times. The mutual contacts and exchanges that take place between our peoples are the foundation of our alliance. They energise and fortify our relationships. India has been and will continue to be a strong partner in Nepal's journey toward peace, growth, and development. "

They also agreed, according to the prime minister, on the question of expanded engagement by Indian corporations in Nepal's hydropower development plans. It is a source of joy that Nepal is exporting excess power to India. The prime minister added that it "will make a significant contribution to Nepal's economic prosperity."

Earlier in the day, Prime Minister Modi tweeted, "PM Deuba ji and I also agreed to give priority to trade and cross-border connectivity initiatives in all respects. The beginning of the Jayanagar-Kurtha rail line is a part of this. Such schemes will make a great contribution to the smooth, hassle-free exchange of services (import and export) between the two countries."

MEA spokesperson Arindam Bagchi tweeted just after the initiation of the meeting, saying, "Working together to take India-Nepal relations to newer heights. The meeting between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Nepal PM Deuba is getting underway. Wide-ranging talks on our multifaceted partnership are on the agenda."