Expanding trade and developmental cooperation will figure prominently in the delegation level talks between the Prime Minister of Nepal and his Indian counterpart Dr Manmohan Singh Friday evening.

Some pacts are expected to be signed after the talks. The two countries are finalising an investment protection agreement to boost Indian investment in Nepal.

India is likely to unveil a 250 million dollar credit line to Nepal for infrastructure projects, including roads and irrigation. Security cooperation including the proposed extradition treaty is also likely to be at the centre of discussions.

In his talks with the Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh, Dr. Bhattarai is expected to brief him about recent political developments in Nepal and seek India’s support in taking forward the peace process. He is likely to seek India’s help in pushing forward the peace process in the Himalayan nation.

Visiting Nepal Prime Minister Babu Ram Bhattarai and External Affairs Minister Mr. S.M. Krishna discussed issues of mutual concern this morning. Official sources said, the peace process in the Himalayan Nation also came up for discussion.

The visiting Prime Minister called on the President Mrs. Pratibha Devisingh Patil at Rashtrapati Bhavan.

Nepal Prime Minister Babu Ram Bhattarai paid homage to the Father of the Nation Mahatma Gandhi at his Samadhi at Rajghat in the national capital.

AIR correspondent reports that this is Bhattarai's first bilateral visit abroad and his first official visit to India after taking charge as Nepal's prime minister less than two months ago. It underlines a keen desire on part of both Nepal and New Delhi to build stronger ties.