India, Nepal can decisively shift trajectory of bilateral ties to achieve full potential: Jaishankar

📌 Summary:

• After talks with visiting Nepali counterpart Shisir Khanal, EAM S. Jaishankar said India and Nepal have an opportunity to "decisively shift" the trajectory of bilateral ties to realise their full potential (June 6, 2026)
• Jaishankar cited "strong complementarities" between the government of PM Balendra Shah in Kathmandu and the Government of India
• He referenced the recent visit by Rabi Lamichhane, chairperson of Nepal's ruling Rastriya Swatantra Party
• The meeting reflects India's "Neighbourhood First" engagement with Nepal

🎯 UPSC Relevance: GS2 IR — India-Nepal relations under Neighbourhood First; managing ties with a strategically located Himalayan neighbour.

📝 Prelims Facts:

• Nepal's current PM (per report): Balendra Shah
• Rastriya Swatantra Party is Nepal's ruling party; chairperson: Rabi Lamichhane
• India's External Affairs Minister: S. Jaishankar; Nepali counterpart: Shisir Khanal

🔑 Key Term: Neighbourhood First Policy — India's foreign-policy approach prioritising friendly, cooperative ties with immediate neighbours.