New Delhi, June 7 -- Nepalese Foreign Minister Shisir Khanal on Sunday advocated for a development-oriented partnership with India, asserting that Kathmandu strongly desires to collaborate with a "rising India" that has established itself as a major economic and technological force.

Addressing a media briefing during his official visit to India, Khanal underscored the deep civilisational and cultural linkages binding the two nations, describing the relationship as one that transcends mere geography.

"We're not merely neighbours on the map; we're children of the same rivers," Khanal stated, while highlighting that the press plays a vital role in shaping public understanding of bilateral engagements.

"In vibrant, pluralistic democracies ...