India, Nepal discuss measures for effective utilization of border infrastructure, tackling trans-border crime

Dehradun (Uttarakhand) [India], August 21 (ANI): India and Nepal reviewed the entire spectrum of bilateral cooperation on border management and security during the 14th meeting of the Joint Working Group (JWG) held in Dehradun and reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening cooperation in these areas.
A Ministry of Home Affairs release said that discussions covered strengthening and effective utilisation of border infrastructure, particularly Integrated Check Posts (ICPs), roads and railway networks and the removal of encroachments.
The discussions also covered ways to tackle trans-border crime and criminal activities;
"Discussions covered addressing trans-border crime and criminal activities; the strengthening and effective utilisation of border infrastructure, particularly Integrated Check Posts (ICPs), roads and railway networks; and the removal of encroachments and maintenance of boundary pillars," the release said.
"The two sides also exchanged views on strengthening institutional coordination and capacity building across various sectors, and agreed to sustain engagement in these areas," it added.
The India-Nepal Joint Working Group (JWG) meeting was held on August 20-21 in Dehradun.
The Indian delegation was led by Pausumi Basu, Joint Secretary (BM-I), Ministry of Home Affairs and the Nepali delegation by Ananda Kafle, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Home Affairs, Government of Nepal.
It was agreed that the next meeting of the Joint Working Group will be held in Nepal at a mutually convenient date.
India and Nepal officially launched a peer-to-peer (P2P) cross-border remittance mechanism on June 6 this year in a major boost to digital financial connectivity and neighbourhood cooperation.
The newly operationalized system establishes a direct link between India's Unified Payments Interface (UPI) and Nepal's National Payments Interface (NPI).
India and Nepal share a unique multi-faceted relationship that is characterized by strong people-to-people linkages and vibrant cultural bonds. (ANI)