KATHMANDU: The ninth meeting of the Indo-Nepal Oversight Mechanism (OSM) agreed to expedite the implementation of bilateral cooperation projects after reviewing their progress since the last meeting held last year.
The meeting held in Kathmandu on August 16 carried out a comprehensive review of bilateral cooperation projects since its 8th meeting held on 17th August 2020.
“Both sides deliberated on the issues at length and agreed to expedite the implementation of such projects,” states the press release issued by the Indian Embassy here on Tuesday.
The meeting was co-chaired by Mr. Vinay Mohan Kwatra, Ambassador of India to Nepal and Mr. Bharat Raj Paudyal, Foreign Secretary, Government of Nepal.
The Oversight Mechanism was set up in 2016 to monitor the progress of various India assisted projects and initiatives.
The meeting was attended by representatives of various Ministries, Departments and Agencies of Government of Nepal, Officers of the Embassy of India in Kathmandu, Consultants, Contractors and other stakeholders engaged in implementation of the projects.
According to the release, the co-chairs noted the progress made in various development projects in the last one year despite the constraints of the COVID-pandemic, which showcased the strength and resolve of our bilateral partnership and the proactive support and facilitation extended by both sides.
The meeting, the Embassy’s statement said, has recognized progress in reconstruction of houses in Gorkha and Nuwakot which is almost nearing completion, completion of 13 road packages in Terai area of Nepal, satisfactory progress in Arun-III project as well in most of the road and transmission line projects under Government of India’s Lines of Credit and commencement of construction of Integrated Check Post at Nepalgunj.
“It was agreed to follow-up on the decisions of OSM through regular coordination to support project implementation and resolve ground-level issues,” said the release. “Both the chairs also noted with appreciation COVID-19 related cooperation, including supply of medicines, medical equipment, beds, ICU, ventilators, and vaccines to Nepal by India.”
Both co-chairs have agreed to hold the next meeting of the Oversight Mechanism on a mutually convenient date.
