Kathmandu, June 29: Deputy Prime Minister Ram Chandra Paudel discussed various issues of mutual interest with Krishna Chandra Pant, minister and deputy chairman of the Planning Commission of India during a meeting in Geneva on 29 June.

On that occasion, the deputy prime minister also discussed with Mr Pant about the problems faced by Nepal due to flood, soil erosion, and deforestation and emphasized the need for river control measures, proper utilization of water and afforestation.

In this respect, he especially mentioned about the flooding and inundation caused by the bunds built in the Rapti River by India along the border in Nepali territory near Nepalgunj and sought the cooperation and assistance of India.

There is need for exchange of experiences between the officials of National Planning Commission of both countries, the deputy prime minister said, stressing the need of some support in implementing programmes in the field of agriculture.

He also suggested exchange of the experience gained in the implementation of programmes related to special area development and poverty alleviation.