Pakistan and Nepal Parliamentarians Seek Direct Flights and Closer Cooperation

Pakistan and Nepal Parliamentarians Call for Direct Flights and Deeper Cooperation

Parliamentary delegations from Pakistan and Nepal have agreed to step up efforts for stronger bilateral relations, calling for a restoration of direct flights, expansion of trade, and increased collaboration in tourism, education, and health. Members from both countries expressed mutual commitment to revitalize ties and address common challenges through joint initiatives.

At a meeting of the Pakistan–Nepal and Bhutan Parliamentary Friendship Group in Islamabad, lawmakers from both nations examined the current state of relations, highlighting both opportunities and obstacles. The discussion centered on the need for direct air connectivity, with participants noting that the absence of direct flights poses significant hurdles for trade, tourism, and people-to-people contact. The Pakistani side, led by Dr. Mahesh Kumar Malani, proposed more frequent inter-parliamentary exchanges and collective action to grow the current modest trade volume. Nepalese delegates highlighted the popularity of Pakistani surgical instruments in Nepal, identifying this as an area for enhanced economic cooperation.

Tourism and cultural exchange featured prominently at the meeting. Pakistani parliamentarians underscored the shared Buddhist heritage and historical sites such as Gandhara, Taxila, and Mohenjo-daro as major attractions for Nepali visitors. Representatives from Nepal echoed the value of these cultural and religious ties, stressing the need for structured exchanges and educational partnerships to deepen mutual understanding.

Restoring direct flights between Islamabad and Kathmandu emerged as a key demand. Both sides agreed that better connectivity would benefit students, tourists, the business community, and medical travelers. They noted the inconvenience and costs caused by having to take indirect routes, urging authorities to prioritize the resumption of Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) flights.

The delegations also discussed joint challenges in climate change, poverty alleviation, and youth development, proposing that university partnerships, linkages between women entrepreneurs, and expanded cooperation through youth and women’s caucuses could deliver grassroots benefits. Pakistani members invited their Nepali counterparts to collaborate on parliamentary initiatives focused on women, youth, and child rights.

Nepalese parliamentarians expressed appreciation for Pakistan’s hospitality and warm welcome. They described Pakistan as a “home-like” environment and reiterated their commitment to deepening cooperation. Nepali representatives also acknowledged Pakistan’s support in international forums and invited Pakistani parliamentarians to visit Nepal to further cement relations.

The meeting ended on an optimistic note, with both countries pledging to maintain regular engagement through their friendship groups and translate discussions into concrete actions. The restoration of direct flights, increased religious tourism, and expanded educational and trade exchanges were identified as top priorities for realizing the full potential of Pakistan–Nepal relations.