Prime Minister Narendra Modi has said that development of close relations with India’s neighbours is a key priority for his government. In a statement prior to departure for Kathmandu to attend the 18th SAARC Summit, the Prime Minister said, India has always emphasized the importance of greater regional integration at all levels for the socio-economic development of the South Asian region.

Stating that New Delhi has undertaken several socio-economic developmental initiatives on bilateral, sub-regional and regional basis, he promised to continue to do more. Mr. Modi expressed hope that the Summit will lead to concrete outcomes, particularly on enhancing connectivity that have been under discussion for a long time. He said he is looking forward to holding bilateral discussions with other South Asian Heads of State and Government on the margins of the Summit.

The Prime Minister is leaving this afternoon on a visit to Nepal to attend the SAARC Summit, being hosted by Nepal in Kathmandu from tomorrow. The Summit will focus on the theme of deeper regional integration for peace and prosperity.