Beijing Correspondent
Nepal is gearing up to host its third investment conference next month in Kathmandu, extending a warm invitation to Chinese investors.
The Nepal Investment Summit-Pre Investment Seminar, organized by the Nepal Embassy in Beijing on Tuesday, saw Vice-Premier and Foreign Minister Narayankaji Shrestha and Nepal’s Ambassador to China, Bishnu Pukar Shrestha, urging investors to seize the opportunities awaiting them in Nepal.
Foreign Minister Narayankaji Shrestha, currently on a nine-day visit to China at the invitation of his counterpart Wang Yi, emphasized the potential of Nepal as an attractive investment destination during his address to Chinese investors.
He urged enthusiastic participation in the upcoming investment conference, which was prefaced by this preliminary seminar.
Highlighting Nepal’s readiness to facilitate Chinese investors, Minister Shrestha underscored the government’s commitment to providing necessary support and infrastructure. Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal ‘Prachanda’ and Finance Minister Barshaman Pun further extended invitations to Chinese investors through separete video messages.
Nepal’s Ambassador to China, Bishnu Pukar Shrestha, echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the myriad investment opportunities available in Nepal across sectors crucial to national development. He underscored the importance of initiatives like the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) and the Trans-Himalayan Multi-dimensional Connectivity Network in fostering bilateral cooperation.
Sushil Bhatta, CEO of the Nepal Investment Board, emphasized the immense potential for investment in infrastructure, tourism, agriculture, services, and education. He welcomed Chinese investors, expressing hope for their active participation in the investment conference, stressing the vital role foreign investment plays in Nepal’s development.
Chinese investors at the event shared their experiences, shedding light on the investment climate in Nepal.
Nepal has historically maintained close economic ties with India, relying on it for assistance and trade.
However, in recent times, Nepal has shifted its gaze toward Beijing, diversifying its channels to attract investment for various development initiatives. This strategic shift includes signing additional trade and transit agreements.
While Nepal seeks to strengthen its economic bonds, it also aims to address its trade imbalance with China. To achieve this, Nepal urges Beijing to facilitate greater market access for products originating from the Himalayan nation. The goal is to foster mutually beneficial economic cooperation between Nepal and China.
Photo Courtesy- Chetnath Acharya, CRI.
