KATHMANDU, 29 April, 2021 (TON): The government of Nepal is to welcome the visit of Bipin Rawat, India’s first Chief of the Defense Staff (CoDS) to the country in his favorable time.

 A formal invitation will be sent to him through diplomatic and military channels, said Nepali officials.

A Cabinet meeting this week has decided to clear Rawat's visit.

Parbat Gurung, Nepal's Information and Communication Minister said, the concerned diplomatic and military channels will fix and arrange the visit.

Since Covid pandemic has hit Nepal and restrictions have been imposed in several cities, it is difficult to say when the visit will happen, said officials.

 Nepal Army through its appropriate channel will fix the date of Rawat's visit, said Gurung.

Rawat had expressed interest to visit Nepal once again as he visited Nepal in February 2018 and May 2017. Besides,  he also wants to visit and worship some revered Hindu shrines like Pashupatinath and Muktinath.

However, General Rawat is the first sitting Chief of Army Staff (CDS) to be appointed to the top post.