ISLAMABAD – Nepal on Wednesday objected to a new map released by India thatplaces the disputed area of Kalapani within Delhi’s borders, saying it was”clear” the territory belonged to Kathmandu.
On Saturday, India released the new map following its decision to split thestate of Jammu and Kashmir into two administrative territories.
On the map, India’s border cuts into Kalapani — long a source ofcontention between the two countries, particularly because Indian troopshave been deployed in the area for more than 50 years.
Nepal “is committed to protecting its international border,” the foreignministry said in a statement.
“Any border-related issue relating to the two friendly countries needs tobe resolved through diplomatic channels on the basis of historicaldocuments and evidence.”
“The Nepal government will not accept any unilateral decision,” it added.
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An 1816 treaty established Nepal’s western boundary with India along theKali River, but border disputes have arisen over a discrepancy between thetwo sides over where the source of the river is located.
Rajan Bhattarai, the foreign relations advisor to Prime Minister KP SharmaOli, said a solution would be sought through talks.
“We have to verify the authenticity of the map and examine the borderlinefrom our concerned authorities and experts. Then we will start talks usingour diplomatic channels,” Bhattarai told AFP. – APP/AFP
