Addressing a press conference at Dwarika´s Hotel before her departure, she said that a whole gamut of bilateral security issues, including the extradition treaty, fake currency notes and finalization of the border strip maps, will be addressed at the home secretary-level talks scheduled for November 6-7 in Kathmandu.
Moreover, she added that politicization in religious and cultural spheres in Nepal would be "regrettable" and "not conducive" to Nepal-India ties. Referring to the recent thrashing of two Indian priests at Pashupatinath temple by a group of Maoists, she said, "The political leaders have conveyed their regret at the recent incident and the government has reassured me that they have taken all necessary measures to ensure security and the well-being of the Indian priests."
Responding to a query on resumption of weapons supply to the Nepal Army, Rao said that India is "willing to provide all assistance at the request of Nepal government".
Rao, who met with senior Maoist leaders including Baburam Bhattarai, Hisila Yami, Barsha Man Pun and Post Bahadur Bogati, said, "India has an abiding interest in the success of Nepal´s peace process." She, however, did not specify the issues discussed with the Maoist leaders. Asked to comment, Yami said that Rao expressed her concern over the Maoist party´s role in the peace process. "Giving the example of the Communist Party of China, she said the Maoists should also evolve as a pragmatic party", Yami further said.
During her stay, Rao met with the president, prime minister, deputy prime minister and other ministers and top leaders of political parties.
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