Jul 24, Kathmandu - The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has issued a statement denying any official knowledge of Prime Minister Balendra Shah’s Chief Advisor Kumar Ben’s recent trip to India.

During a routine press conference, Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lok Bahadur Paudel KC responded to questions from journalists, stating that the ministry has not been formally informed about Ben’s visit.

It has come to light that Kumar Ben, an advisor to Prime Minister Dahal, traveled discreetly to India and reportedly met with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s security advisor, Ajit Doval.

The government has emphasized its commitment to strengthening relations with all friendly nations and has reiterated its intention to continue high-level visits as needed.

Regarding the recent visit of Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) Chairman Rabi Lamichhane to China, Foreign Ministry officials clarified that such visits are matters for political parties. However, they also assured that the ministry is ready to facilitate and coordinate such visits upon request from the respective parties.

“The visits and exchanges between political parties are matters for the parties themselves. If there is a need for coordination or diplomatic facilitation, the Foreign Ministry will assist upon the respective party’s request,” the spokesperson added.