Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) chair Rabi Lamichhane is set to meet Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday during his ongoing visit to India, a development that has drawn attention in both political and diplomatic circles. The meeting comes after a series of high-level engagements with senior leaders of India’s ruling establishment, giving the visit significance beyond a routine political exchange.
For a party that emerged as a disruptive force in Nepal’s political landscape, the visit reflects an effort to build relationships beyond domestic politics and engage directly with influential political actors in the region. The timing has also added interest, as Nepal’s major parties continue to navigate a shifting political environment at home.
Meetings With India’s Top Leadership
During his stay, Lamichhane has held separate discussions with Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar and Home Minister Amit Shah. He has also met other senior figures within the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), which currently leads the Indian government.
The scheduled meeting with Prime Minister Modi is expected to be the highest-profile engagement of the visit.
Focus on Bilateral Relations and Political Dialogue
Discussions during the meetings have covered Nepal–India relations, areas of mutual interest, democratic practice, border and security cooperation, and ways to strengthen dialogue between political parties in the two countries.
RSP has framed the visit as an opportunity to expand political communication with a neighboring country and deepen engagement on issues that affect both nations. The party’s outreach suggests a growing interest in building international political connections alongside its domestic agenda.
Warm Reception From BJP
Lamichhane and members of his delegation received a formal welcome from BJP representatives upon their arrival in India. The level of reception and the access granted to senior Indian leaders have been viewed as indications of New Delhi’s interest in engaging with Nepal’s newer political actors.
The RSP delegation is scheduled to return to Nepal on June 5.
