New Delhi: As India's row with Nepal over the map has deepened, Congress party, on Wednesday, expressed concern over the matter and demanded the Central Government to brief the leadership of all other political parties about the recent developments.
In a statement issued by Congress senior spokesperson Anand Sharma, it has been stated, "The recent developments in India Nepal relations and the dispute over Kalapani-Lipulekh area, following the publication of a new map by Nepal depicting the area as Nepalese territory is a matter of national concern."
The former Union Minister also mentioned that both the countries have invested enormously in nursing and promoting a strategic partnership recognising and respecting each other's sensitivities.
India and Nepal share a historic and time-tested relationship marked by mutual respect, friendship and trust and the issue should be resolved amicably through diplomacy and talks, he said.
"India and Nepal have an established bilateral mechanism to resolve any dispute and differences through negotiations. It is regrettable that the present impasse has reached a stage, which has strained the friendly relationship. This needs to be addressed urgently," he added.
A row between the two countries erupted when Nepal recently published a new map showing Kalapani, Lipulekh as it's own.
Later, some reports suggested that Nepal is willing to talk out map issue with India through dialogue and is looking forward to Indian response to its proposal for talks.
Agreeing over it, Anand Sharma said, "India has always respected the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Nepal. Both countries have successfully settled 98% of common border issues. There is an expressed willingness of both sides to settle all disputes in the same spirit of close friendship and mutual trust. Congress is of a considered view that diplomacy and negotiations must be given a chance to resolve the present issue."
Calling Nepal as "neighbour and natural partner" of India, Congress leader asserted on the need to secure and protect the "precious goodwill" built over the years between the two countries.
Demanding the Indian government to take the nation into confidence over the issue, he said, "In a view of the seriousness of the issue and significance of India-Nepal relations, the government should take the nation into confidence and brief the leadership of political parties as is expected in a parliamentary democracy."
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